A 


J  arts/  /cm- 


THE 


BIBLICAL  CATECHISM, 

-     DESIGNED   FOR 

SABBATH     SCHOOLS. 

BY 

■      REV.  .1.  J/LANSDELL. 


NO.    1* 


RALEIGH  : 

IB  I.  K'Al,      BS'OOSDIB      PBI.KT 
1863. 


Entered  according  lo  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1863, 

By  J.  J.LANSDELL, 

In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Coivrt  of  the  Conl'ed- 

•rate  States,  for  the  District  of  Pamlico, 

North  Carolina. 


TO  THE 

SABBATH  SCHOOLS 

CONEECTED    WITH  THE 
CHURCHES  OF  CHRIST  IN  THE 

CONFEDERATE  STATES 

THIS  VOLUME  IS 

RESPECTFULLY    DEDICATED 

WHIT    THE  HUMBLE    HOrE  THAT   IT  MAY    Rl 

OF  ROME  SERVICE  TO  THOSE  WHO    ARK 

ENGAGED  IN    TEACHING 

RELIGIOUS     TRUTH     TO  THE 

RISING  GENERATION. 


/lOtz&yc\ 


PREFACE. 

This  work,  which  is  now  offered  to  the 
public,  has  been  called  forth  by  the  exi- 
gencies of  the  times.  The  scarcity  of  Sab 
■bath  School  text  books  since  the  beginning 
of  the  present  war  has  been  a  serious  draw- 
back in  the  efficiency  of  Sabbath  School 
instruction,  and  the  scarcity  of  Scripture 
question  books  has  been  especially  felt.  It 
is  hoped  that  this  volume  will  supply,  in 
part,  the  present  demand.  In  its  prepara- 
tion, my  object  has  been  to  present  plain 
truths  in  a  plain  manner,  so  that  the  young 
student  may  be  instructed  instead  of  puz- 
zled. 

In  teaching,  the  student  should  be  re- 
quired to  commit  to  memory  such  passages 
of  Scripture  as  are  referred  to,  as  well  as 
those  copied  in  the  lesson,  so  as  to  impress 
on  the  youthful  memory  such  Scripture 
truth  as  will  be  the  foundation  of  a  sound 
theology  in  time  Jo  come.      4£25??0 


That  this  work  may  be  of  service  to 
those  who  are  engaged  in  the  great  work 
of  Sabbath  School  instruction,  is  the  sincere 
desire  and  humble  prayer  of 

THE  AUTHOR 

kAL-BTou,  N.  C.,  May,  1863. 


LESSOR  r 
ation  c/    Man 

k.   Who  made  you  ? 

Am.' God. 

In  what  image  was  man  created  i 

hi  the  image  of  God. 

Genesis  1 :  27.  "  God  created  man  in  his 
own  image,  in  the  image  of  God  created  be 
him." 

Out  of  what  was  man  formed: 

Out  of  the  dust  of  the  earth . 

Did  his  soul  come  from  the  dust  of  the  earth  .' 

No:  his  soul  came  more  directly  from 
God. 

Genesis  2:7.  "  And  the  Lord  God  formed 
man  of  tlje  dust  of  the  ground,  and  breath- 
ed into  his  nestrils  the  breath  of  life;  and 
man  became  a  living  soul." 

In  what  natural  condition  was  man  created  I 

"Male  and  female  created  he  them," 
Gen.  1 :  27. 

Wnatwas  man's  relative  position  to  other  porti 

Cod's  creation  2 

He  was  superior  to  all  other.  » 

Gen.  1:  28.  "And   God    blessed   them, 

and  God  said  unto  them,  Be  fruitful  and 

multiply,  and  replenish  the  earth,  and  Bob- 


due  it  and  have  dominion  ovei  the  0 
the  sea,  and  over  the  foul  of  the  air,  and  over 
every  living  thing  that  moveth    upon   the 
earth."  • 

What  was  man's  moral  condition  < 

k  It  was  good. 
Gen.  1:  31.  "And  God  saw  every  thing 
that  he  had  made  arid  behold  it  was  very 
good." 

'Tis  fey  thy  power,  Almighty  God, 
The  heavens  and  earth  were  made  ; 

Thy  hand  the  starry  heavens  spread, 
And  earth's  foundations  laid. 

The  teeming  millions  of  the  sea, 

And  creeping  things  of  .earth, 
At  thy  command j  Eternal  God, 

Were  ushered  into  birth. 

nun  chief  o'er  all  thy  works  below, 

Man,  honored  man  was.  made  ; 
His  soul  with  God's  pure  image  stamp©.), 

Witli  innocence  arrayed. 

ipleted  now  the  mighty  work, 
Go.l,  bis  creation  viewed  ; 
d,  pleased  with  all  that  he  bad-made, 
Pronounced  it  very  good. 


>    LESSON  II. 

dl  and  Depravity  of  Man. 

.  What  is   the  chief  purpose  for  which  man  was 
seated  ? 


9 


Ans.  To  love  and  to  serve  God. 

Dent.  6:  5.  "Thou  shalt  love  the  Lord 
thy  God  with  all  thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy 
soul,  and  with  all  thy  miff  ht,"  . ..."  and 
him  only  shalt  thou  serve/1  Mat.  4:  1<>. 

Does  man  answer  this  great  end  of  his  creation  ? 

He  does  not;  he  hates  God,  and  refuse 
io  serve  him. 

Romans  8  :  7.  "The  carnal  mind  i 
mil y  against  God."  Ps.  53 :  23-  "God 
•I  down  from  heaven  upon  the  children 
of  men,  to  see  if  there  were  any  that  did 
understand,  that  did  seek  God.  Every  one 
of  them  is  gone  back ;  ....  there  is  none 
that  doeth  good,  no,  nof  one.'1' 

What  wouhlNi'U  Bay  of  man,  seeing 'that  this  is  his  con 
Jition  '. 

1  would  say  that  he  is  a  sinner. 

Arc  all  men  .-'Miners  '  . 

They  are;  "for  all  have  sinned,  and 
come  short  of  the  glorv  of  God."  Rom  '■'> : 
23. 

What  constitutes  man  a  sinner? 

The  transgression  of  the  law. 

ki  Whosoever  commiteth  sin  trarisgresseth 
also  the  law;  for  sin  is  the  1  rahsgression  o1 
the  law."  1  John  3:4. 

What  is  meant  by  tra; 

It  means  a  refusing  to»do   those    things 
liired  by  the  Taw 


10 


W  hose  law  lias  man  refused  to  obey  < 

The  law  of  God,  and  lias  thereby  become 
a  sinner  against  God. 

Does  God  hold  man  accountable  for  hir-  Bins? 

He  does  ;  and  unless  lie  repent   lie  must 
perish,  and  be  punished  forever. 

Luke .13  :  3.  "Except  ye  repent,  ye  shall 
all  likewise  perish."     Matt.  25  :  46. ' "  These 
shall    go    away  into    everlasting    punish 
menfe" 


How  sad  ouv  state  by  nature  is  ! 

Our  sin,  how  deep  it  stains  ! 
And  Satan  binds  our  captive  minds 

Fast  in  bis  slavish  chains. 

Brit]  bark!  a  voice  of  sovereign  love 
"lis  Christ's  inviting  word — 

;    Ho  !  ye  despairing  sinners,  come, 
And  trust  upon  tneLord." 

.My  son!  obeys  tli'  almighty .call, 

And  runs  to  this  relief; 
I  would  believe  thy  promise,  Lord 

o,  help  my  unbelief. 


To  the  deai  fountain  of  thy  blood,  • 

Incarnate  God,  1  fty  : 
I  [ere  Let  me  wash  my  spotted  soul. 

From  stains  of  deepest  dye. 


A  guilty,  weaic,  and  helpless  worm, 

On  thy  kind  arms  1  ftdl  ; 
Be  thou  my  strength  and  righteousness 

M  v  -::iv  iour  ana  Hay  all. 


11 
LESSON  III 

Fall  and  Depravity 

(/",.     \\,  little  children  sinners! 
Ans%  They  are. 

Whal  make    them  sinners  '. 

They  are  sinners  because  they  are  of  a 

sinful  race. 
What  a  e  some  of  the  first  developments  oJ   the 

iiion  of  children  8 

Disobedience  to  parents. 

Is  it   wrong  for  children  to  disobey  tin;:  pal 

It  is  ;  because  parents  are  more  likely  to 
know  what  is  good  for  their  children  than 
children  are  themselves. 

Can  you  give  any  farther  evidence  that  it  is  wrong  and 
uinful  lor  children  to  disobey  their  parents  ; 

I  can.  Exodus  20:  12.  "Honor  thy 
father  and  thy  mother,  that  thy  days  may 
be  long  upon  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy 
Godgiyetn  thee/' 

«  an  you  give  *tfj  farther  evidence  of  the  sinful  disposi 
!i'ii  of  children  \  . 

I  Can.     Ps.  51 :  5.   '  "  Behold,  I  was  slia 
pen  in  iniquity ;  and  in  sin  did  my  mother 

conceive  me,  Job.  14:4.  '<*5\Tho  can 
bring  a  clean  thing  out  of  an  unclean  I  Not 
one. 

do  these  passages  seem  to  teach 
They  teach   that  t 
are  likewise  sinners. 


i'hey  teach  that  the  children  of  sinners 


12    . 

Who  were  I 

Adam  and  Eve,  who  were  the  first  man 
and  woman,  and  from  whom  all  oilier  men 
have  sprung. 

How  did  Adam  and  Eve  become  dinners  ' 

By  disobeying  God.    . 

What  command  did  they  disobey  '. 

"  The  Lord  God  commanded  man,  saying 
of  every  tree   of  the  garden  thou   mayest 
freely  eat ;  but  of  the  tree  of  knowledge  of 
good  and   evil  thou  shalt  not  eat."     Gen 
2  :  16,  17. 

Was  God  displeased  with  Adam  because  of  his  disobe- 
dience. 

lie  was  ;  so  much  so  that  he  drove  him 
out  of  the  garden  of  Eden,  and  placed  ob- 
structions to  his  entering  it  again.  See  Gen. 
.3  :  23,  %L 

Ts  God  displeased  with  all  wicked  persons? 

He  is.  "  God  is  angry  with  the  wicked 
<  very  day."     Ps.  7:11. 

Did  the  whole  race  of  manjbecome  sinners  by  reason  of 

A<lnm's  transgression?        v 

They  did.  " 'Wherefore  as  by  one  man 
sin  entered  into  tlie  world,  and  death  by 
sin  ;  and  so  death  passed  upon  all  men,  for 
;  hat  all  have  sinned.".    Rom.  5  :  12. 

Since  death  is  the  consequence  of  sin,  is  it  not  a  dread- 
ful thing  to  sin  against  G"tl  \ 

Lord  we  arc  vil«x>nceivcd  in  sin. 
And  born  unhol\%nd  unclean  : 


13 


Sprung  from  the  man  whose  guilty  fall 
Corrupts  the  race,  and  taints  us  all. 

Soon  as  we  draw  our  infant  breath. 
The  seeds  of  sin  grow  up  for  death; 
Thy  law  demands  a  perfect  heart, 
But  wo  're  defiled  in  every  part. 

Great  God,  create  <>ur  hearts  anew, 
And  form  our  spirits  pure  and  true  : 
O,  make  us  wise  betimes,  to  see 
Our  danger  and  our  remedy. 


LESSON  IV. 

Guilt  and  Depravity. 

ijm  s.  From  what  we  have  seen  of  the  teachings  of  the 
Scriptures,  what  would  you  say  of  the  condition  of  man  i 

Ans.  I  would  say  that  his  condition  is 
most  wretched  and  helpless. 

Why  i3  his  condition  wretchod  ? 

Because  he  is  under  the  curse  of  God. 

What  is  that  curse? 

"The  soul  that  sinneth  it  shall  (fie," 
Ezekiel  18  :  4,  and  since  all  men  are  sin 
ners,  all  rest  under  this  curse. 

Why  is  man's  condition  helpless  ? 

Because  h%is  in  a  condition  from  which 
it  is  impossible  for  him  to  relieve  himself. 

Can  you  «xplain  this  ? 

I  think  I  can.  We  can  get  into  difficul- 
ties much  easier  than  we  can  get  out  of 


14 


them ;  I  could  faU  down  a  precipice  that  I 
could  not  climb  up  again. 

Do  we  experience  any  oi  the  evil  consequences  oi"  bin 
in  this  world  i 

We  do ;  all  our  sorrows,  afflictions  and 
toils  ;  all  pestilences,  famines  and  Avars,  are 
the  results  of  sin. 

What  were  the  temporal  curses  which  God  pronounced 
against  Adam  when  he  sinned  ? 

"  Cursed  is  the  ground  for  thy  sake  ;  in 
sorrow  shalt  thou  eat  of  it  all  the  days  of 
thy  life;  thorns  also  and  thistles  shall  it 
bring  forth  to  thee  ;  and  thou  shalt  eat  of 
the  herb  of  the  field :  in  the  sweat  of  thy 
face  shalt  thou  eat  bread,  till  thou  return  to 
the  ground ;  for  out  of  it  wast  thou  taken ;  for 
dust  thou  art,  and  unto  dust  shalt  thou  re- 
turn." Gen.  3 :  17,  18,  19. 

Have  mankind  universally  experienced  these  calami- 
ties?' 

They  have  in  every  particular. 

Are  temporal  calamities  the  only  evil  effects  of  sin 
which  men  experience  ? 

No,  by  no  means.  They  are  but  tlie  be- 
ginning, and  admonish  us  of  aii  eternity  of 
misery  after  death. 

Can  you  give  .  any  Scripture  proof  of*  a 'future  state  n't 
misery  and  torment? 

"  The  wicked  shall  be  turned  into  hell, 
and  all  the  nations  that  forget  God.  Ps.  1) : 
IT.    "  The  rich  man  died  also,  and  was  bur- 


15 


ied  ;  and  in  hell  he  lifted  up  his   eyes,  be- 
ing in  torment,"  Luke  16  :  22,  23. 

What  do  these  terrible  consequences  of  sin  teach  us  I 

They  teach  us  God's  great  abhorrence  of 
sin,  and  admonish  us  to  seek  a  remedy  for 
sin. 

What  does  Paul  say  of  the  natural  condition  of  man  :ib 

a  sinner  i 

That  he  is  "  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins  ' 
Eph.  2 :  1. 

Can  a  dead  thing  bring  itself  to  life? 

It  can  not. 

Can  sinners,  therefore,  who  are  spiritually  dead,  restore 
themselves  to  spiritual  life  ? 

They  cannot;  this  must  be  done  by  the 
power  of  God.     Eph.  2  :  4,  5. 

If  we  are  not  restored  to  spiritual  life  while  in  this 
world,  what  must  our  condition  be  in  the  world  t<> 
come  ? 

We  must  experience  forever  all  the  terri- 
ble consequences  of  that  spiritual  death  in 
which  we  are  now  involved  by  reason  ot 
ctttr  sins. 

Have  you  any  evidence  that  you  have  been  restored  t~ 
spiritual  life? 


How  is  our  nature  spoiled  by  sin  ! 

Yet  nature  ne'er  hath  found 
The  way  to  make  the  conscience  clean. 

Or  heal  tho  painful  wound. 

In  vain  we  seek  for  peace  with  God 
By  methods  of  our  own  ; 


16 


Jesus,  there'*  nothing  but  thy' blood 
Can  bring  us  near  thy  throne. 

The  threateniugs  of  thy  broken  law  . 

Impress  our  souls  with  dread ; 
If  God  his  s*word  of  vengeance  draw 

It  strikes  our  spirits  dead. 

But  thine  illustrious  sacrifice 
Hath  answered  these  demands, 

And  peace  and  pardon  from  the  skies 
Come  down  by  Jesus' hands. 

7Tis  by  thy  death  we  live,  O  Lord  ; 

'Tison  thy  cross  we  rest: 
Forever  be  thy  love  adored, 

Thy  name  forever  blest. 


LESSON  V. 

Christ,  our  Saviour. 

Ques.  We  have  seen  the  wretched  condition  of  man  w 
a  sinner ;  is  there  any  way  by  which  he  can  be  saved 
from. his  sins  and  restored  to  the  favor  of  God? 

Arts.  There  is ;  "  God  so  loved  the  world 
that  he  gave  his  only  begotten  Son,  that 
whosoever  believeth  on  him  should  not 
perish,  but  have  everlasting  life."  John 
3:  16. 

What  would  you  call  this  announcement ! 

I  would  call  it  the  gospel. 

What  does  the  word  gospel  mean  ? 

It  means  good  netos. 


17 


Canyon  explain  haw  this  announcement  is  good  news 
t©  the  sinner  i 

I  think  I  can.  If  a  man  were  perishing 
with  hunger,  and  it  should  be  announced  to 
him  that  some  kind  friend  had  offered  to 
feed  him,  and  thus  to  save  him  from  death, 
I  would  consider  it  good  news  to  the  per- 
ishing man  ;  and  so  the  announcement  of 
salvation  to  guilty  sinners  is  good  news  to 
them. 

What  caused  God  to  provide  salvation  for  sinners  i 

His  love  for  them— "  God  so   loved   the 
world/' 
What  is  meant  by  the  expression  "the  world"  '. 

The  men  in  the  workl,  who  are   sinners. 

What  did  God  do  to  provide  salvation  lor  sinners  ! 

He  gave  his  only  begotten  Son. 

Was  not  this  a  great  gift? 

It  was.  I  do  not  sco  how  a  greater  gifl 
could  have  been  made. 

What  would  you  say,  then,  of  the  love  which  moved 
the  Almighty  in  bestowing  so  great  a  gift? 

T  would  say  that  the  love  was  equal  to 
the  gift. 

Did  God  love  us  because  we  were  lovely  ? 

No;  he  did  not,  but  because  we  were 
helpless,  and  he  pitied  us. 

Do  you  suppose  that  any  thins*  less   than    the   i 
God's  Son  would  have  effected  our  salvation  .' 


I  suppose  it  would   not,  or  God,   in   hi 
wisdom,  would  have  pre \  i.icd  it* 


1? 


De  you  suppose  that  any  thing  less  than  the  gift  of  God's 
Son  weuld  have  been  a  full   expression  of  God's  love  to 

us  ? 

I  suppose  it  would  not,  or  he  would  have 
given  expressions  of  his  love  only  through 
other  means. 

What  would  you'say,  then,  of  the  gift  of  God's  son -for 
our  redemption? 

I  would  say  that  it  is  the  hfgkest  ex^ 
pression  of  God's  love. 

Ought  we  not  to  love  God,  in  return  for  the  greal  love 
therewith  lie  loves  us  { 
Do  mankind  generally  love  God  .' 

They  do  not;  hut  on  the  contrary,  they 

hate  him,  and  despise  his  laws. 

Do  you  love* God? 


Pliiiio'ed  in  a  gulf  of  dark  despair, 
We  wretched  sinners  lay, 

Without  <me  cheerful  beam*  of  hope, 
Or  spark  df  glimmering  day; 

Wiih  pitying  eyes  the  Print 
Behlld  our  helpless  grief; 

[le    aw,  and — 0,  amazing  love  £ — 
lie  flew  to  our  relief. 

Down  from  the  shining  seats  , 
With  joyful  haste  he  tied, 

I-jiIi  red  the  grave  in  mortal  flesh, 
And  dw.it  among  the  dead,. 

(j,  for  this  love,  let  rocks  and  trills 
Their  lasting  silence  break, 

,r\nd  :il L  harmonious  human  tcmgites 
The  tfa\iour\s  praises  speakj 


TTT 


Angels  assist  our  mighty  joys  ; 

Strike  all  your  harp?  of  gold 
But  when  you  raise  your  highest  notes, 

His  love  can  ne'er  be  told 


LESSON  VI. 

Advent  of  ( 'hrisl. 
How  did   the  »Son  ofGod  make  bis   adv(  , 

world  1 

He  was  burn  of  the  virgin  Marv,  Mai     I 
23. 

Where  was  he  born  '. 

In  Bethlehem,  in  the  country  of  Jtidea, 
Mat.  2 : :  1. 

By  what  names  is  he  usually  called' 

Jesus,  Christ,  and  Emmanuel. 

What  does  the  name  Jesus  moan  I 

It  means  Saviour.  "  And  thou  shall  call 
his  name  Jesus;  for  he  shall  save  his  people 
from  their  sins."  Mat.  1:  21. 

What  does  the  name  Christ  mean  8 

It  means  the  anointed. 

What  does  the  name  Emmanuel  mean' 

It  neans,  "God  with  us."  Mat.  1  :  2$. 

Under  what  circumstances  was  Christ  born  ! 

Under  those  of  the  deepest  poverty.  He 
was  wrapped  in  swaddling  clothes,  and  laid 
in  a  manger,  Luke  2  :  7. 

What  kind  of  clothes  are  "swaddling  clothes,'5    and 
what  is  a  mangel 


20 


• "  Swaddling  clothes  "  are  very  mean  gar- 
ments— perhaps  they  were  used  to  rub  down 
the  beasts  of  the  stable  with;  and  a  man- 
ger is  a  trough  or  box  in  which  beasts  are 
ted.      * 

What  great,  moral  lesson  do  we  lean)  from  these  hum- 
ble circumstances  connected  with  the  birth  ef  Christ? 

We  learn  '  that   God's  richest  jewels    on 

earth  are  sometimes  concealed  from  public 

gaze  by  the  deepest  poverty,  and  that  wo 

should  not  be  led   away  by  a  fair  outward 

show  in  religion. 

Who»announccd  the  birth  of  Christ? 

The  angel  of  God.     Luke  2 :  9;. 

To  whom  was  the  announcement  made? 

To  the  shepherds,  who  were  watching 
their  flock  by  night.     Luke  2  :  8. 

What  was  the  announcement  which  the  angel  made  ! 

"Behold  I  bring  you  good  tidings  of 
^reat  joy,  which  shall  be  to  all  people. — 
For  unto  you  is  born  this  day  in  the  city  of 
David  a  Saviour,  which  is  Christ  the  Lord." 
Luke  2:  10,11. 

What  else  appeared  to  the  shepherds  \ 

%i  And  suddenly  there  was  with  the  angel 
a  multitude  of  the  heavenly  hosts  praising 
God,  and  saying,  Glory  to  *God  in  the  high- 
est, on  earth  peace,  good  will  toward  men." 
Luke  2:  13,  14. 


What   othei   remarkabh    occurence   took  place  nt  tL*> 
birth  of  Christ  * 

A  star  was  seen  by  certain  wise  men  of 
the  east,  and  it  went  before  them,  until  il 
itoocl  over  the  place  where  Jesus  was. — 
Matt.  2:9.     . 

When  these  wise  men  came  into  the  presence  of  the 
Infant  Jesns,  what  <li<l  they  do?  < 

The/ fell  down  and  worshipped  hint,  and 
opened  their  treasures,  and  presented  unto 
him  gifts  of  goldj  frankincense,  and  myrrh. 
Matt,  2:  11  „ 

Ought  \vc  not.  also  to  worship  Christ,  and 'to  make 
offerings  anto  him  ! 

We  certainly  might,  and  it  is  very  Binful 

to  refuse  to  do  so. 

But  how  can  we  now  make  offerings  unto  Christ  ' 

By  contributing  of  our  money  and  Other 
substance. to  support  religion. 

Do  you  worship  Christ,  and  contribute- to  the  cauae  bl 
religion  '. 


I  Lark  !  tlic  herald  angels  sing, 
"  Glory  to  the  new-born  Kins;  ; 
Peace  on  earth,  and  mercy  mild 
God  and  sinners  reconciled." 


.i"\  fill,  all  ye  nations,  rise  ; 
Join  the  triumph  Of  the  skies  ;. 
With  th'  angelic  host  proclaim, 
•  <  Lhrist  is  born  in  Bethlehem.'" 


22 

See,  he  layshis  glory  by, 
Born,  that  man  no  more  may  dia- 
Born  to  raise  the  sons  of  earth-*- 
Born  to  give  them  second  birth 

Hail,  the  holy  Prince  ot  Peace  ! 

.Flail,  the  Sun  of  Kighteou^i- 
Light  and  life  to  all  he  brings, 
Risen  with  healing  in  his  wing,'. 

Let  us,  then,-  with  angels  sing,. 
'"Glory  to  the  new-born  Xing  ; 
Peace  on  earth,  and  mercy  mild 
Godund  sinners   reconciled." 


LESSON  VII. 

Herod's    Widcedn  ess. 
Ques.   Who  was  King  over  Judea  when  Christ  wasboi  n  ■' 

Am.  Herod.     Matt.  2:1. 

What  decretj  did  Ctusar  Augustus  put  forth  "  in  thuse 
ftayii"?  '     * 

A  decree  "that  all  the  world  should  be 
(axed."     Luke  2:  1. 

Who  was  this  Ca-sar  Augustus  : 

lie  was  tlie  Roman  king,  and  is  usually 
called  Augustus  Caasar. 

What  had  he  to  do  with  Jude'a  '. 

Judea  was",  at  that  time,  a  province  under 
the  Roman  government,  and  enjoyed  its 
protection,  and  therefore  had  to  pay  tax  to 
Caesar. 

Was  Iltrod  a  Kunuu 


No,  he  was  a  Jew,  and  wag  appointed  by 
Caesar  as  king  over  Judea. 

By  what  title  was  Christ  called  by  the  wise  men 

lie  was  called  the  u"  King  of  the  Jews." 

Mat.  2:  2. 

Mow  was  Herod  affected  when  lie  heard  of  the  birth  ol 
Christ,  and  of  the  title  which  had  been  given  him  ' 

Tie  "was  troubled.  Mat  2  :  3. 
\\  lial  dp  yon  suppose  was  the  cause  of  Hero 
Perhaps  lie  feared  that  the  government 

of  the  Jews  would  be  taken  from  him  and 

given  to  Christ. 

What  secret  request  did  Herod  make   of  the  wi- 
respecting  Christ. 

v  He  rent  them  to  Bethlehem,  and  said, 
( k)  and  search  diligently  for  the  young  ehild  ; 
and  when  ye  have  found,  him,  bring  me 
word  again,  that  I  may  come  and  worship 
him  also."  Mat  2:  8 

Did  the  wise  men,  return  to  Ile'rod  i 

-  They  did  not,  but,  "  being  warned  of  God 
in  a  dream  that  they  should  not  return  to 
Herod  ;  they  departed  into  their  own  coun- 
try an  other 'way."  Mat.  2:  12. 

Do  you  think  that  Herod  desired  to  worship  Chi  i* 

'  :.id   .' 

1  do  not,  but  he  wished  to  tee  him,  no 
doubt,  that  lie  might  have  an  opportunity 

to  kill  him. 
Was  not  thi 


It  was,  and  he  must  have  been  a  very 
wicked  man. 

Herod  being  disappointed  in  his  yricked  purpose,    what 
did  he  next  do  8 

"  Then  Herod,  when  he  saw  that  he  was 
mocked  of  the  wise  men,  was  exceeding 
wrath,  and  sent  forth,  and  slew  all  the  chil- 
dren tliat  were  in  Bethlehem,  and  in  the 
coasts  thereof,  from  two  years  old  and  un- 
der, according  to  the  time  which  he  had  dil- 
igently inquired  of  the  wise  men.''  Mall. 
2:  16. 

.    Where  was'Ch.rist  when  this  wieked  decnl  was  .lone  '. 

He  was  away  down  in  Egypt. 

I  Tow  came  he  there '! 

"  The  angel  of  the  Lord  appeared  to  Jo- 
seph in  a  dream,  saying,  Arise,  and  take  the 
young  child  and  his  mother,  and  ftee  into 
Egypt,  and  he  thou  there  till  1  brim;-  thee 
word.1'     Matt.  2  :  13. 

What  great  moral  truth  do  we  learn  in  the  accounl  here 

given  of  the  remarkable  preservation  of  the  infant    Jesus 
trom  the  murderous  designs  of  Hero, I  \ 

We  learn  that  he  who  strives  against  the 
Almighty  shall  not  prosper  in  the  end. 

Are  you  striving  against  him? 

Joy  to  the  Avorld  !  the  Lord  is  coma  ' 

Let  earth  receive  her  King  ; 
Let  every  heart  prepare  him  room. 

And  heaven  and  nature  sing, 


Joy  to  th<  i  an  h!  n  reign* 

£e1  men  their  songs  employ  ; 
w  i,,i.  field     .,,.. 1   loods,  rocks,.hill»,  andplaim 

Rep<  at  the  sounding  joy . 

No  more  Ie1  -ins  ;m<l  sorrows  grow, 

Not  thorns  infest,  the  grouna  ; 
He  comes  to  make  his  blessings  flow 

Far  as  the  curse  is  found. 

He  rules  the  world  with  truth  and  grace., 

\ 1 1 . 1  makes  the  nations  prove 
The  glories  ofhis  righteonsm 

A  ii.l  winders  ofhis  love. 


LESSON  VIII. 

John  the  Baptist.' 
Qui*.  Who  was  the  official  forerunner  of  Christ  1 
Ans.  John  the  Baptist. 

What  was  his  mission  i 

To  prepare  the  way  of  the  Lord,  or  "to 
make  ready  a  people  prepared  for  the  Lord." 
Mark  1 :  3. 

How  did  John  fulfill  his  mission  I 

By  preaching  the  doctrine  of  repentance 
and  baptizing  those  who  believed  his  teach 
ings.     Matt.  3 ;  £,  .5,  6. 

What  was  John's  great  proclamation  2 

"  Eepent  ye,  for  the  kingdom  of  heaven 
is  at  hand."     Matt.  3  :  2. 

What  is  meant  here  by  "  the  kingdom  of  heaven  "  i 


26 


It  means  the  reign  of  Christ  in  the  great 
work  of  sanation. 

What  is  said,  Mark  1 : 1,  of  the.  mission  of  John  '. 

That  it  is  "the  beginning  of  the  gospel 
of  the  Son  of  God." 

To  whom  did  John  direct  the  minds  of  the  people  '. 

To  Christ,  "  saying,  there  cometh  one 
mightier  than  I  after  me,  the  latchet  of 
whose  shoes  I  am  not  worthy  to  stoop  down 
and  unloose."     Mark  1 :  7,  Luke  3  :  16. 

Should  not  all  preachers  of  the  gospel  imitate  the  ex- 
ample of  John  in  this  respect? 

They  certainly  ought.  Christ  should  be 
the  great  theme  of  their  preaching. 

Did  John  baptize  all  the  people  in  Judea,  or  all  those 
who  came  to  his  baptism? 

He  did  not ;  for  he  called  the  Pharisees 
and  Sadducees,  who  came  to  his  baptism,  a 
"  generation  of  vipers,"  Matt.  3 :  7,  and 
Christ  says  "the  Pharisees  and  lawyers  re- 
jected the  counsel  of  God  against  them- 
selves', being  not  baptized  of  him."  Luke 
7:30. 

What,  then,  does  Imko  mean,  chap.  3:  21,  whin  \w 
says,  "  Now  when  all  the  people  were  baptized"  \ 

He  must  mean  this :  when  all  ;the  people 
who  submitted  to  the  ordinance  of  baptism, 
were  baptized. 

In  what  light  did  the  people  look  upon  John ! 

They  regarded  him   as  a  prophet,  and 


27 

some  wondered  it'  lie  were  not  the  Christ. 
Matt.  13:  5,  Luke  3  :  15. 

What  was  Christ's  testimony  in  regard  to  John  '. 
"  Among  those  that  arc  born  of  women, 
there  is  not  a  greater  prophet  than  John 
the  Baptist:"     Luke  7  :  28. 

What  did  John  say  of  -himself? 

"  He  said,  I  am  tlie  voice  of  .one  cryiag 
in  the  wilderness,  make  straight  the  way  oj 
the  Lord."     John  1 :  23. 

Where  did  John  baptize? 

In  the  river  of  Jordan,  Mark  1:  5,  and 
"  in  Enon  near  to  Salim,  because  there  was 
much  water  there.7'    John  3  :  23. 

Docs  it  require  much  water  for  baptism  '. 

It  seems  that  it  required  "  much  Watei 
when  John  baptized,   and   I   would  think 
that  it  requires  the  same  now. 

What  did  the  people  do  whom  John  baptize  I  . 

They  confessed  their  sins.     Mark  1 :  5. 

What  is  the  confession  of  sins  evidence  of? 

It  is  evidence  of  penitence. 

What  seems  to  be  the  character  of  those  whom  John 
baptized  ? 

They  seem  to  be  penitent  believers. 

Uow  was  John  clothed,  and  what  was  his  di.  i  j 

"  John  was  clothed  with  camel's  hair,  and 
with  a  girdle  of  skin  about  his  loins ;  and 


28 


lie  did  eat  locusts  and  wild  honey."  Mark 
1:6.  His  garments  were,  therefore,  coarse 
and  uncomely,  and  his  diet  such  as  the  wil- 
derness afforded. 

What  important  lesson  do  we  learn  from  these  circum- 
stances in  his  life  ? 

We  learn  that  ministers  of  the  gospel 
whose  circumstances  in  life  are  humble, 
should  not  be  despised  on  that  account, 


Repent  !"  the  voice  celestial  cries  ; 

In  o  longer  dare  delay ; 
The  soul  that  scorns  the  mandate  dies. 

And  meets  a  fiery  day. 

No  more  the  sovereign  eye  of  God 
O'erlooks  the  crimes  of  men  ; 

His  heralds  now  are  sent  abroad 
To  warn  the  world  of  sin. 

Bow  ere  the  awful  trumpet  sound, 

And  call  you  to  his  bar  ; 
His  mercy  knows  th'  appointed  bound, 

And  turns  to  vengeance  there. 

Amazing  love,  that  yet  will  call, 

And  yet  prolong  our  days ! 
Our  hearts  subdued  by  goodness,  fall. 

And  weep,  and  love,  and  praise. 


29 


LESSON  IX. 
Baptism  of  Christ 

Ques.  Was  Christ  baptized  '. 

Ans.  He  was. 

By  whom  was  lie  baptized  i 

By  John  the  Baptist. 

Where  was  Christ  baptized? 

,  In  the  water  of  the  river  Jordan. 

From  whence  did  Ohristcome  when  he  applied  to  Johii 
for  baptism  i 

He  came  from  Nazareth  of  Galilee,  which 
is  supposed  to  be  a  distance  of  about  thirty 
three  miles  from  Jordan.     Mark  1 :  9. 

What  was  Chrsit'smode  of  traveling? 

On  foot,  or  walking. 

Why  was  Christ  baptized  ?  had  he  any  sins  to  eonfeaa 
or  to  repent  of  ? 

He  had  not;  but  he  was  baptized  "to 
fulfill  all  righteousness."    Mat.  3 :  15. 

What  u  rightooitsness"  was  fulfilled  in  the  baptism  <>i 
.Christ? 

The  ordinance  of  baptism  being  obserx  ed 
by  him,  he  acknowledged  it  to  be  of  divine 
appointment,  and  thereby  laid  an  example 
for  his  people  in  all  coming  time. 

When  Jesus  was  baptized,  what  remarkable  occurrence 
took  place  as  he  went  up  out  of  the  water? 

"  The  heavens  were  opened  unto  him,  and 


.    -30 

lie  saw  the  Spirit  of  Clod  descending  like  a 
dovej  and  lighting  upon  him  ;  and  lo,  a 
voice  from  heaven,  saying,  this  is  my  be- 
loved Son,  in  whom  I  am  well  pleased. '' 
Mat  3  :  16,  17. 

Did  any  besides  Christ  see  the  descent   of  the  Spirit 
upon  him  ? 

John  saw  it,  and  by  this  he'4  knew  that 
Jesus  was  the  Messiah ;  and  therefore  di- 
rected the  people  to  Christ,  saying,  "  Be- 
liokl  the  Lamb  of  God,  which  taketh  'away 
the  sin  of  the  world.'7  John  1 :  29  to  34. 

How  old  was  Jesus,  when  he  was  baptized  \ 

About  thirty  years  old. 

I  >id  John  baptize  any  one  after  he. baptized  Jesus  i 

Yes ;  he  baptized  "  in  Enon  near  to  S  a 
Mm'1  at  the  same  time  the  disciples  of  Jesus 
were  baptizing  in  Judea.  John  3  :  22,  23, 
and  4 :  2, 

'What  dispute  arose  about  this  time  between  some   oi 
John's  disciples  and  the  Jews  ?  John  3  :  25. 

A  dispute  in  regard  to  purifying. 

What  do  you  suppose  was  the  nature  of  that  dispute  I 

I  think  it  was  because  the  disciples  of 
John  had  neglected  the  Jewish  rites  of  pu- 
rifying since  their  baptism.  (For  some  of 
those  rites,  read  Numbers  19th  ch.) 

What  did  John  say  aboui  Ibis  time  in  regard  to  bl- 
own mission  and  the  mission  of  Ch 

He  said,  "He  must  increase,  but  I  must 
decrease ,,?  John  3 :  30. 


31 


What  did  John  faith  in  Christj 

"  He  that  beleiveth  on  the  Son  hatli  ever- 
lasting lii'e  ;  and  he  that  beleiveth  not  the 
Son  snail  not  see  life;  but  the  wrath  of 
God  abidctb  on  him."     John  3:  36. 

Do  you  believe  on  Christ  a*  your  personal  Saviour? 
How  did  John  end  his  da}>  .' 

'  He  was  put  in  prison  by  Herod  because 
he  reproved  him  for  .  his  wickedness,  and 
was  finally  beheaded  to  satisfy  the  rerengi 
of  Herod's  wife.     Matt.  U:  3  to  12. 

What  two  remarkable  tacts  are  seen  in  tljje  lifg  and 
death  of  John  the  Baptist  i  * 

He  was  the  first  preacher  under  the  gos- 
pel dispensation,  and  the  first  martyr  under 
that  dispensation. 

Come,  happy  souls,  adore  the  Land). 
Who  loved  our  race  ere  time  began, 
Who  veiled  his  Godhead  in  our  Clay 
And  in  an  humble  manger  lay.. 

To  Jordan's  stream  the  Spirit  led. 
To  mark  the  path  his  saints  should  t  read 
With  joy  they  trace  the  sacred  way, 
To  see  the  place  where  Jesus  lay.* 

Baptized  by  John  itf  Jordan's  wave, 
The  Saviour  lel't  his  watery  grave; 
Heaven  owned  the  deed,  approved  tho  \\  av. 
And  blessed  the  place  where  Jesue  lay. 

Come,  all  who  love  his  precious  name, 
t'ome,  tread  his  steps,  and  learn  of  him  ; 
Happy  beyond  expression  they 
Who  find  the  place  where  Jesus  lay. 


LESSON  X. 

The  Temptations  of  Christ. 

Ques.  What  remarkable  thing  happened  to  Chi  i 
mediately  after  his  baptism  ? 

.  Jins.  lie  was  "led  up  of  the  Spirit  into 
the  wilderness  to  be  tempted^  of  the  devil," 
where  he  fasted  forty  days  and  forty  nights. 
Matt.  4:  1,  2. 

How  did  the  devil  begin  his  temptations  i 

By  saying  to  Christ,  "  if  thou  be  the  Son 
of  God,  command  that  these  stones  be  made 
bread."     Matt.  4:3..* 

Is  thorc  any  particular  cunning  in  this  temptation? 

There  is.  Christ  was  hungry,  and  Satan 
embraced  this  as  a  favorable  opportunity 
to  induce  him  to  yield  to  his  temptations. 

What  argument  did  Satan  use  in  this  temptation  3 

"If  thou  be  the  Son  of  God  ;"  in  which 
Satan  implies  that  if  he  did  not  turn  the 
stones  into  bread  to  satisfy  his  hunger,  that 
he  could  not  be  the  Son  of  God.   . 

How  did  Christ  repulse  the   tempter  in    th 
tion  ? 

With  the  word  6f  God;  by  saying,    "  It 
is  written,    Man  shall   not  live  by    1 
alone,  but  by  every  word  that  proeeedeth  \ 
out  of  the  mouth  of  God."     Matt,  4  :  4. 

What  great  truth  is  taught  in  this  temptation  ? 

That  we  should  not  yield  to  the  tempta- 1 


33 


tions  of  Satan  and  commit  sin 'because  of 
present  bodily  necessities. 
Wliat  was  the  nexl  temptation? 

tk  Then  the  devil  taketh  him  into  the  holy 
city,  and  scttcth  him  on  a  pinnacle  of  the 
temple,  and  saith  unto  him,  If  thou  be  the 
Son  of  God,  cast  thyself  down ;  for  it  is 
written,  lie  shall  give  his  angels  charge 
concerning  thee ;  and  in  their  hands  they 
shall  bear  thee  up,  lest  at  any  time  thou 
dash  thy  foot  against  a  stone."  Matt.  4  : 
5,  G. 

What  was  Christ's  reply  to  this? 

"It*  is  written  again,  Thou  shalt  not 
tempt  the  Lord  thy  God."  (v.  7)  Here 
Christ  asserts  his  divinity,#nd  Satan  is  re- 
pulsed by  the  assertion. 

What  important  lesson  do  wc  derive  from  this  tempta 

'i<>n' 

That  we  should  not  rashly  and  unneces- 
sarily expose  our  lives  or  persons  to  clanger, 
and  at  the  same  time  rely  upon  God  to  pro 
tect  and  sustain  us. 

What  was  the  next  temptation? 

"  Again  the  devil  taketh  him  up  into  au 
exceeding  high  mountain,  and  showethhim 

all  the  kingdoms  of  the  world,  and  the 
glory  of  them ;  and  saith  unto  him,  all 
these  will  I  give  thee,  if  thou  wilt  full  down 

and  worship  me."     vs.. 8,  9. 


i        ■  ,      M   ,  .1  V    !  0 

"Get  thee  hence,  Satan;  loi  il  is  writ 
tliou  shalt  worship  the  Lord  thy  God,  and' 
him  only  shalt  thou  serve."    v.  10. 

What  is  particularly  remarkable  in  this  temptation  '. 

That  Satan  rendered  himself  so  contemp- 
late by  promising  to  give  that  which  did 
not  belong  to  him,  and  by  presenting  him- 
self as  a  proper  object  of  worship,  that  all 
that  was  necessary  to  repulse  him  was  to 
-command  him  to  depart  by  authority  of 
God's  word. 

What  do  we  learn  in  these  temptation's  in  regard  to  the 
arguments  to  be  employed  against  Satan  and  error  ? 

<We  learn  that  they  should  be  derived 
from  the  word  of  God. 

What  occurred  immediately  after  these  temptations  .' 

a  Then  the  devil  leaveth  him,  and  behold, 
angels  came  and-ministered  unto  him."    v. 

What  may  we  expect  if  wd  properly  resist  tht  devil » 

That  he  will  llee  from  as,  (James  1:  7 ) 
and  that  wre  will  enjoy  the  protection  and 
consolation  of  God. 

Why  did  Christ  submit  himself  to  the  insolent  tempta- 
tions of  Satan! 

That  in  all  things  he  might  be  made  lilts 
unto  his  brethren^  and  that  being*  tempted 
he  might  be  able  to  succor  them  that  are 
tempted.    Heb.  2:  17,  18, 


De  iconds,  in  mercy }  from  al 
And  he,  before  whom  angels  bow, 
Js  found  a  man  of  grief  below. 

Such  love  isg  ;  night, 

■th  and  breadth  in  vain  arc 
No  tongue*  can  toll  its  depth  and  he  i 
The  love  of  Christ  is  infinite. 

But  though  his  love  no  measure  knows,  . 
T he  Saviour  to  his  people  shows 
Enough  to  give  them  joy,  when  fen 
Enough  to  make  their  hearts  his  own. 


LESSON  XI. 


The  Ministry  of  Christ. 
How  did  Christ  OoninieirC' 

Ans.  By  preaching  the  doctrine  of  ie 
pentance,  saying  as  John  had  said,  "Repent: 
for  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is  at  hand." — 
Matt.  4  :  IT. 

Who  were  the  first  disciples  of  Christ  - 

Two  of  John's  disciples.  John  1 :  35- 

What  was  the  name  of  one  of  them  3 

.    Andrew,  Simon  Peter's  brother.  John  1  : 

rew  do  soon  aftci  he  I  : 

lis  brother  Biraon,  ano! 
Bm  to.Jr  n.       John  1  -  41,  42 


3G 

We  learn  that  those  who  profess  to  he 
disciples  of  Christ  should,  try  to  induce  their 
friends  and  kindred  to  Toe  his  disciples  also. 

Why  should  they  be  particularly  interested  for  tin-  sal- 
vation of  their  friends  and  relatives  ?  Ought  they  not  to 
be  interested  for  the  salvation  of  all  men? 

It  is  true  tha'u  .they  ought  to  have  a  gene- 
ral concern  for  the  salvation  of  men  ;  but 
they  ougK  to  labor  especially  for  the  salva- 
tion of  their  friends  and  relatives,  because 
they  are  more  likely  to  succeed  with  them 
in  *neir  private  entreaties  than  they  would 
oe  with  strangers. 

What  did  Christ  say  to  Simon  when  he  was  brought  to 
him  by  Andrew  ? 

He  said  unto  trim,  "  Thou  art  Simon  the 
son  of  Jonas :  thou  shalt  be  called  Cephas, 
which  is  by  interpretation,  a  stone."  John 
1:  42. 

Uow  did  Christ  know  the  name  of  Simon  and  who  his 
lather  was  ?  did  any  one  tell  him  ? 

I  suppose  not ;  but  he  knew  them  because 
lie  is  God,  and  knows  all  things. 

By  what  name  is  Simon  usually  called  ? 

Feter. 

Kcad  Matt.  4 :  18—20,  and  tell  mo  how  the  account  there 
give'n  of  Peter  and  Andrew  can  be  reconciled  with  the 
account  given  by  John,  which  we  have  just  examined. 

The  two  are  accounts  of  different  transac- 
tions. John  gives  an  account  of  And  rev/ 
and  Peter  becoming  disciples,  and  Mathew 
of  their  call  to  the  ministry. 


Have  we  any  account  of  any  other  of  the  first  disciple 
Bringing  a  friend  to  Christ  1 

Yes;  we  have  a  most  interesting account 
of  Philip's  entreaties  with  Nathaniel.  John 
1 :  43—50. 

Can  you  repeal  this  narativc? 

WJiat  is  said  of  Christ' a  preaching,  besides  thai  he 
pr<  ached  repentance .' 

That  he  preached  the  gospel  of  the  kin- 

dom.  Matt.  4  :  23. 

What  practical  lesson  may   be  derived   from  what  we 
have  seen  so  far  of  the  ministry  of  Christ  I 

That  the  proper  way  to  make  disciples  oi 
Christ  is  to  teach  men  the  gospel. 

What  is  meant  by  being  a  disciple  of  Chii 

The  same  as  being  a  christian. 

Are  you  a  disciple? 


Doth  .Satan  1111  you  -with  dismaj  , 
And  tell  you,  Christ  will  east  away  ; 
It  is  a  truth,  why  should  you  doubt 
lie  will  in  no  wise  cast  you  out. 

Approach  your  God,  make  no  delay, 
lie  waits  to  welcome  you  to-day  : 
His  mercy  try,  no  longer  doubt, 
lie  will  in  nowise  cast  you  out. 

• 
u  Lord,  at  thy  call,  behold  1  I  oome 
A  guilty  soul,  lost  an.l  undone; 
On  thy  rich  blood  I  now  rely, 
in\  vile  1  n 


LESSON  XII. 

Christ's  Ministry. 

.  When  Christ  made  disciples,  what  was   done  to 
them  ?  * 

Ans.  They  were  baptized.  John  3  :  22, 
and  4:1.' 

•  What  docs  this  fact  teaeh  us  ? 

It  teaches  us  that  all  christians  should  be 
baptized. 

Did  Christ  malic  many  disciples  ? 

He  made  and  baptized  more  disciples 
than  John.  John  4:1. 

Did  Christ  baptize  any  himself? 

He  did  not,  but  his  disci]  >les  did  the  bap 
■iizing  under  his  authority.  John  4:  2. 

Who  arCauthorizud  to  baptize  ? 

Those  who  have  been  baptized  thqi£selveSj 
and  have  been  set  apart  to"  the  work  of  the 
gospel  ministry.  Matt.  2S  :  10. 

Why  do  you  say  that  a  man  must  he  baptized  lud'ore  he 
is  authorized  to  baptize? 

Because  a  man  can  not  i-ive  that  which 
he  has  not  received. 

Bat  did  not  those   baptisms   of  which  we    haye 
speaking;  take  place  before  any  were  chosen  to  l!i a 

of  the  ministry  ? 

*  They  did;  but  they   were  perform* 
der.the  personal'  super  vis.  on  oi ''(>[■ 

Ms  direct  authority. 


i  u; 


John  tb<   Baptii  I 

.;iy  that  th<  ■ 

Because  John's  business  was,  "to  ra 
i< ly   a   people  prepared  for   the    Lord," 
(Luke  1 :  17,)  and  we  have  seen  that  the 
first  disciples  of  Christ  were  those  who  had 
been  John's  disciples.  John  1  :  35 — 37. 

Tint  wore  not  those  who  had  l>ccn  baptized  by  John 
baptized  over  again  l. 

There  is  no  evidence  that  any  of  them 
were. 

Whom  did  CIu'kI  choose  as  the  first  mini 
pel  l 

Twelve,  whom  he  named  apostles. 

What  were  their  names  5 

Peter,  Andrew,  James,  John,  Philip,  Pa» 
tholomcw,   Matthew,  Thomas,  ''James,    the 
son  of  Alpheus,  Simon  called  Zelot.es,  ,\\ 
the  brother  of  James,  and  Judas  Iscai" 

Wire  all  of  these  good  men? 

They  were  not ;  Judas  Iscariot  was  a  ve 
ry  bad  man — so  much  so  that  Christ  called 
liim  a  devil.  John  6  :  70. 

What  important  lesson    do  we  leans  Crom  this  oil 

We  learn  not  to  judge  of  men  from  their 
I         on  or  office,  but  from  their  acts, 

f  To  whom  did  Christ  send  tho  twelve  Apostles'* 

I  u  To  the  lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel. r 
Malt.  10  :  6. 

What  docs  this  mean ! 


40 


II  m^aiib  that  their  labors  were  to  be  con- 
fined to  the  Jews,  for  they  were  specially 
coin  nianded  not  to  go  to  the  Gentiles  or  to 
Samaritans.  Matt.  10  :  5.. 

What  were  they  commanded  to  preach  ? 

That  "the 'kingdom  of  Heaven  is  at 
hand."  Matt.  10  :  7. 

What  docs  Mark  say  they  preached  ? 

"  That  men  should  repent."  Mark  6  :  12. 

Was  this  according  to  their  instructions  ! 

It  was ;  for  the  doctrine  of  repentance  is 
an  important  doctrine  of  the  kingdom. 

What  else  did  Christ  tell  them  to  do  ? 

r  To  "  heal  the  sick,  cleanse  the  lepers,  raise 
the  dead,  and  cast  out  devils."  Matt.  0  :  8. 

Did  they  do  any  of  these  things  ? 

"  They  cast  out  many  devils,. and  anoint- 
ed with  oil.  many  that  were  sick,  and  healed 
them."  Mark  6:  13. 

What  did  Christ  tell  the  Apostles  in  regard  to  their  sup- 
port and  providential  protection? 

"  Provide  neither  gold  nor  silver,  nor 
brass  in  your  purses,  nor  scrip  for  your  jour- 
ney, neither  two  coats,  neither  shoes,  nor 
yet  staves ;  for  the  workman  is  worthy  of 
his  meat."  Matt.  10 :  10,  11. 

What  practical  lesson  is  derived  from  this  instruction? 

That  ministers  of  the  gospel  should  he 
supported  by  those  to  whom  they  preach.    I 

Did  Christ  choose  any  besides  ilic  twelve  to  the  work 
of  the  ministry: 


lie  did.     lie  choose  seventy  others,  and 
gave  them  similar  authority  to  that  of  the 
twelve,  and  sent   them  out  two  and  two 
Luke  lOtli  chapter. 

When  they  returned  to  Christ  what  report  did  they, 
bring? 

They  "returned  with  joy,  saying,  Lord, 
even  the  devils  are  subject  unto  us  through 
thy  name."  Luke  10  :  17. 

What  did  Christ  tell  them  in  regard  to  their  joy  i 

"*  In  this  rejoice  not,  because  the  spirits 
are  subject  unto  you ;  but  rather  rejoice, 
because  your  names  arc  written  in  heaven,1 
Luke  10:  20. 

\V  hat  is" better  than  all  things  else  3 

An  assurance  that  our  names  are  writ!  < 
in  heaven. 


Broad  is  the  road  that  leads  to  death, 
And  thousands  walk  together  tjti 

But  wisdom  shows  a  narrow  path, 
With  here. and  there  a  traveller. 

11  J)cny  thyself  and  take  thy  cross," 

Is  the  Redeemer's  great  command  : 
Nature  must  eouut.  her  gold  but  di 

If  she  would  gain  this  heavenly  hind. 

©jord,  let  not  all  my  nopes  be  wain  . 

<  Jreate  my  heart  entirelj   new— 
"•v  hicH  \>\  poci  Lteja  could  ne>ei  all  111 
W  hich  i'l-, 


42 

'  LESSON  XIII, 

The  Ministry  of  Christ. 
Ques,  Where  did  Christ  commence  his  ministry  ■ 

A7is.  Ill  Galilee,  the  country  where  he 
lived. 

What  advantage  does  there  seem  to  be  in  this  \ 

If  he  had  been  a  bad  man,  the  people 
could  have  testified  against  him,  for  they 
knew  him  ;  but  being  a  good  man,  nothing 
coil  hi  be  said  against  him. 

How  did  he  employ  his  time': 

lie  u  went  about  all  Gallilee,  teaching  in 
their  synagogues,  and  preaching  the  gospel 
of  the  kingdom,  and  healing  all  manner  of 
sickness,  and  all  manner  of  disease  among 
the  people."  Matt.  4  :  23. 

Did  Christ  continue  to  occupy  his  time  in  this  way  ? 

He  did  ;  for  we  have  the  same  account 
m  Matt  0:    35. 

What  was  the  clfect  of  these  vfon&crs  which  Chrii  I 
formed  \ 

"  His  fame  went  throughout  all  Syria  ; 
and  they  brought  unto  him  all  sick  people 
that  were  taken  with  divers  diseases  and 
torments,  and  those,  which  were  possessed 
wTih  devils,  and  these  which  were  lunatic, 
and  those  that  had  the  palsy  ;  and  lie  heal 
ed  them.  And  there  followed  him  great; 
multitudes  of  people  from  Galilee,  and  De-» 


capolis,  and  Jem  ad  Judea,  an 

pond  Jordan."  Matt.  I  .  2£, 

low  him  ?" 

It  is  not,  for  the  people  of  this  country 
would  act  in  the  same  way  ii'  such  wonders 
were  peformed  among  us. 

\fim-  this  what  did  Christ  <1<,  } 

lie  went  np  into  a  mountain,  and  called 
Liis  disciples  unto  him,  and  taught  them 
Matt.  .5:  1,  2. 

Where  are  the  toaetiinge  of  Christ   which  h 
1  recorded  .' 

In  the  5th, *(>th,  and  7tb  chapter,;  <>t'  Mad 

What  arc  tJie.sc  teachings  usually  called  1 

Christ's  sermon  on  the  mount. 

What  is   the   character   of  Chi.  in    thi. 

.  i  mob  '. 

He  first  tells  us  who  are  blessed,  (ch.  5  ' 

3—11 ,)  and  then  gives  us  important  instruc 

tions  for  the  regulation  of  our  lives. 

Wliat  docs  he  tcU  his  people  Ihcy  arc  } 

That  they  are  thusalt  of  the  earth, 
ihc  light  of  the  world,  ch.  5  :  13,  14. 

What  is  the  virtue  of  salt  ? 

It  is  preserving,  and  so  christians  by  their 
presence  in  the  world  preserve  society  from 
corruption -and  ruin. 

What  is  the  use  of  light  \ 

■     That  we  may   see   surrounding   objects, 


and  shun   dangers,    and  follow    after   that 
which  is  good. 

What  does  Christ  tell  Lis  people  to  do,  as  the  light  of 
the  world? 

"  Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that 
they  may  see  your  good  works,  and  glorify 
your  Father  which  is  in  heaven.1'  v.  16, 

What  docs  he  tell  us  about  swearing  ' 

"Swear  not  at  all ;  but  let  your  conver- 
sation be  yea,  yea,, — nay,  nay,  for  whatso- 
ever is  more,  than  these  cometh  of  evil." 
ch.  5 :  35—37. 

What  docs  he  teach  about  resisting  evil! 

That  we  are  not  to  resist  evil,  by  render- 
ing evil  for  evil,  but  to  do  good  for  evil.  ch. 
5:  38—41. 

What  docs  he  tell  us  in  regard  to  our  conduct  toward 
our  enemies? 

"Love  your  enemies,  bless  them  that 
curse  you,  do  good  to  them  that  hate  you, 
[tray  for  them  which  dcspitcfully  use  you 
and  persecute  you."   ch  5-:  43— 4o\ 

[f  men  generally  would  adopt  this  rule,  what  would  boi 
i lie  effect? 

The  world  would  be  much  better  oft',  and 
mankind  much  more  happy. 


Compared  with  Christ,  in  all  beside 

No  comeliness  I  see  ; 
The  one  thing  needful,  dearest  Lord, 

is  to  be  one  with  thee. 


45 

i        1 1  ■  ■    bl  ■ .   ell  will  not  suffice 

My  comforts  to  restore  : 
More  than  thyself  I  can  not  crave- 

Nov  canst  thou  give  me  more. 

Loved  of  my  God,  for  him  again 
With  love  intense  I'd  burn  ; 

Chosen  of  thee,  ere  time  began, 
I'd  choose  thec  in  return." 

Whatc'er  consists  not  with  thy  will, 

<  >  teach  me  to  resign  ; 
I'm  rich  to  all  th'intcuts  of  b 

Since  thou,  my  God,  art  mine. 


LESSON  XIY. 

The  Ministry  of  Christ. 
What  does  Christ  teach  us  about  giving  alma  ? 

•  Ans.  That  we  arc  not  to  give  alms  to  be 
seen  of  men,  for  if  we  do  we  will  have  no 
reward  of  our  •  heavenly  Father.  Matt.  6  : 
1—4. 

What  does  ho  say  ef  those  who    give  alms  that  they 
may  have  glory  of  men  .' 

He  says   that  they   are  'hypocrites,  and 
that  they  have  their  reward. 

What  is  the  reward  which  such  persons  receive? 

The  reward  that  they  seek,  which  is  the 
praise -of  men. 

What  is  the  manner  in  which    Christ  tells  his  people 
that  they  must  yive  ulms? 


That  they  must  nutlet  flu  u  t\  hand  1 
at  the  right  hand  dofclh 

What  (Joes  this  mean?  ** 

That  they  arc  tp|f3c~quiet  and  unpretehd 
ing  in  their  charities,  and  bestow  them 
alone  for  the  sake  of  doing  good. 

If  they  do  their  alms  thus  secretly,  what   does    Chrisl 

I'll  his  people  will  be  the  cilect  ?■ 

u  Thy  Father  which  seeth  in  secret  shall 
reward  thoc  openly."  v.  4. 

Is  it -not  better  to  have  the  reward  which  (.iod  bestows 
1 1 1  ai  i  to  have  the  praise  of  men  ?    " 
What  docs  Christ  teach  in  regard  to  prayci  ?      — - 

-m  That  wc  are  not  to  pray  as  the  hypocrites 
do,  standing  in  the  synagogues  and  in  the 
corners  of  the  streets,  to  be  seen  of  men, 
but  to  pray  to  our  heavenly  Father  in  secret. 
vs.  5,  6. 

What  is  a  synagogue  ? 

A  house  for  Jewish  worship. 

What  is  a  hypocrite  ? 

One  who  pretends  to  be- what  he  is   not. 

Arc  not -hypocrites -detestable  eharacU 

They  arc;  they  arc  hateful  both  before 
God  and  mas. 

Do  you  suppose  that  Christ  forbids  all  kinds  of  public 
prayer  in  this  instruction? 

I  suppose  not ;  but  only  that  kind  qf  pub- 
lic prayer  practiced  by  the  hypocrites. 

What  seemed  to  be  the  object  of  these  hypocrites  in  their 
public  prayers  ? 


•To  be  seen  of  men,  and  to  be  considered 

very  holy. 

Will  it  do  us  any  good  to  be  regarded  by  nun  al  I 
very  pious,  if  our  hearts   are  not  right  in  tliu  sight  ol 
( tod  ? 

It  may   do  us   some   little   good   in  thi 
world,  but  it  will  .be  much  worse  for  us  in 
the  world  to  come. 

What  farther  instruction  doea   Christ  give  in   i 
prayer? 

That  we  must  not  use  rain  repetition, 
the  heathen  do  ;   for  they  '  think  that   they 
will  be  heard  for  their  much  sperking.  v.  7. 

'    From  what  we  have  seen,   what  does  .Christ  seem  to 
teach  in  regard  to  praj  er  ' 

That  our  prayers  are  to  be  simple,  plain, 
and. earnest. 

Can  you  give  any  farther  proof  of  this  manner  of  pray 
erl  | 

Christ  teaches  us  to  pray  after  this  man- 
ner :  "  Our  Father  which  art  in .  heaven, 
hallowed  be  thy  name.  Thy  kingdom-come. 
Thy  will  be  done  in  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven. 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  And  for- 
give us  our  debts,  as  we  forgive*  our  debt- 
ors. And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but 
deliver  us  from; evil:  for  thine  is  the  king- 
dom, and  the  power,  and  the  &loi  v  forever. ■" 
A  num.  vs.  0 — 13.  * 
What  is  this  form  of  prayci  usually  called  i 

The  Lord's  prayer. 


48 

I  suppose  not ;  but  it  is   given   to  teach 
the  manner  of  prayer. 

What  does  Christ  teach  in  regard  to  forgiveness  § 

"  If  ye  forgive  men  their  trespasses,  your 
heavenly  Father  will  also  forgive  you  ;  but' 
if  ye  forgive  not  men  their  trespasses,  nei- 
ther will  your   Father   forgive   your   tres 
passes."  vs.  14,  15. 

Is  it  not  a  good  thing  to  have  the  forgiveness  of  our 
heavenly  Father  •? 

Our  Father,  God,  who  art  in  heaven, 

All  hallowed  be  thy  name  ; 
Thy  kingdom  come;  thy  will  be  done 

In  heaven  and  earth  the  same . 

Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread  ; 

And  as  we  those  forgive 
Who  sin  against  us,  so  may  we 

Forgiving  grace  receive. 

Iuto  temptation  lead  us  not ; 

From  evil  set  us  free  ; 
And  thine  the  kingdom,  thine  Hie  power, 

And  glory,  ever  be. 


LESSON  XY. 

The  Ministry  of  Christ 
Qiies.  What  doos  Christ  teach  in  regard  to  fasting? 

Ans.  That  we  should  not  fast,  to  appear 
unto  men  to  fast,  as  the  hypocrite;-  do,  but 
unto  onr  heavenly  Father.  Matt.  6:  Ifi, 
17,18 


1!) 
What  is  a  i 

The  fast  which  God  has  chosen  is  this  : 
to  loose  the  bauds  of  wickedness,  to  undo 
the  heavy  burdens,  to  let  the  oppressed  g< » 
free,  to  break  every  yoke,  to  feed  the  hun- 
gry, to  bring  the  poor  into  your  house,  and 
to  clothe  the  naked.     Isaiah  58  :  0,  7. 

What  is  the  ordinary  signification  ol  foot  ? 

Acts  of  abstinence  and  humility. 

llow  does  this  agree  villi  what.  God  describes  as  n  fasi 
which  will  be  pleasing  to  him  \ 

In  this  way :  his  people  should  abstain 
from  personal  interests  and  enjoyments,  and 
humble  themselves  enough  to  do  these 
things  which  he  requires. 

Where  does  Christ  tell  as  to  lay  up  our  treasure 

In  heaven,  where  moth  and  rust  do  not 
corrupt,  and  where  theives  do  not  break 
through  and  steal.     Matt.  6  :  20. 

Where  docs  he  tell  us  our  hearts  will  be? 

Where  our  treasure  is.      Matt.  G  :  21. 

What  is  the  christian's  treasure  which  lie  lays  \\\,  in 
heaven ? 

His  hope  of  everlasting  life. 

HOwr  docs  he  lay  up  this  treasure  ? 

By  faith  in  Jesus  Christ. 

What  does  Christ  teach  in  regard  to 
mammoi 

"  Ye  <*an  n<>f  serve  God  and 


oO 


The  word  mammon  is  the  name  of  the 
iSyriac  god  of  wealth :  it  means  here,  world- 
ly possessions  of  all  kinds. 

•What  should  be  our  first  great  cure  ? 

"Seek  ye  first  the  kingdom  of  God  and 
his  righteousness."   v.  33. 

What  docs  Christ  mean  when  he  telhs  us  to  "  take  no 
thought"  for  various  things  necessary  to  our  comfort,  in 

i  his  life,  v's  25— 32  ? 

.  I  suppose  he  means  to  teach  us  that  wc 
are  to  discharge  our  various  duties  in  the 
fear  of  God  and  not  to  be  troubled  about 
God's  providential  arrangements. 

What  does  Christ  teach*  in  regard  to  judging  one  unolh 

"  Judge  not,  that  ye  be  not  judged  ;  ft  r 
with  what  judgment  ye  judge,  ye  shall  be 
judged;  ami  with  what  measure  -ye  jnecu,  it 
shall  be  measured  to  you  again."  cl'i  7:  1,  2 

What  is  the  meaning  of  this? 

It  seems  to  mean  this:  that  we  are  not 
to  ionn  an  unfavorable  opinion  of  men  be- 
fore WC  know  anything  about  them ;  for 
after  a  while,  by.  their  fruits  wc  can  know 
litem,  v.  17. 

What  are  we  to  understand  in  verses  3,  4,  5  by  11 
and  the  beanp  in  the  eye  ? 

We  are  here  guarded  against  a  captious 
spirit  of  *  itfagniiyihg  the   faults/ 
while  we  may    ' 

are.  "/ 


We  had  beti  first, 

_•.  I  ii.i  oi  Qur  ;-.ins,. and  then  we  will  be 
much  better  prepared  to  assii (  others  in  re 
forming  their  lives. 

What  does  Christ  loach   o 

'  tng  • 

"Ask,  and  it  shalibq  given  yon;  seek;  and 
ye  shall  find  ;~knock,  and  it  shajl  boo] 

unto  you..'  v.  7. 

For  what  ai  o  we  i^ 

For  the  mercy  ofttod,  and  fhe  pardon  of 
fein. 

Will  those  be  granted- 

They  will.  v.  8. 

For  what  are  we  to  seek  ! 

"For  glory  and  honoi  an<T  in  mortality 
Rom.  2:  7. 

l1  will  we  find  '. 
Eternal  life*.  Rom.  2 :  7. 

What  may  we  uinlcx-stiiiul  by  the  oxprcssioh  "  i: 

We' seem  to  he. reminded  here  of  the  free 
and  easy  admittance  which  the  children  of 
God  will  have,  when  life's  short  jonrn 
over,  "into  the  everlasting  kingdom  of 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.''     %  Peter 
1  :  11. 

Where  will  th«y  then  bo? 
Ill  their  Father's  house.  John  14  :  :2. 


52 


There  i!    i  .place  "i  sa<  1 1  •  1  reaj , 

Far,  far  beyond  the  skips, 
Where  beauty  Bin  lies  eternally, 

And  olcasore  never  dies ; — 
My  Father's  house,  my  heavenly  hoin 

"Where  "  many  mansions"  stand, 
Prepared,  by  hands  divine  for  all 

Who  seek  the  better  land. 

In  that  pure  home  of  tearless  joy 

Earth's  parted  friends  shall  meet, 
With  smiles  of  love  that  never  fade, 

And  blessedness"  complete ; 
There,  there  adieus  are  sounds  anknolvj 

Death  frowns  not  on  that  scene, 
But  life,  and  glorious   beauty  slnnc, 

Untroubled  and  serene. 


LESSON  XVI. 

Ministry  of ,  Christ. 

Qua  s.  W  bat  is  the  character  of  those  who  will  be  admit- 
ted into  the  kingdom  of  heaven  2 

Ans.  Clirist  says,  "  Not  every  one  that 
;  aith  unto  me,  Lord,  Lord,  ....  hut  he 
that  doeth  the  will  of  my  Father  which  is 
in  heaven.?'  Matt.  7  :  21. 

What  are  we  to  understand  by  this  3 

That  a  mere  profession  of  religion  will 
not  insure  our  admittance  into  heaven,  hut 
we  must  really  and  truly  do  thcTwill  of  God. 

What  is  the  will  of  God? 

It  is  sthat  we  helieve  in  Josus  Christ, 
whom  he  hath  sent  into  the  world,  and  do 


53 


whatsoever   he   has   commanded     !,,!> 
tiidM:  23,  24; 

Whore  may  we  Irani  the  command  i  "I  Chi 

Iii  fehc  New'Testament. 

Is  it    not  an  awlul   thing    to  make'i  false    profej 
religion  ? 

It  is;  for,  no  matter  how  many  wonders 
they  perform  in  this  world  in  the  name  of 

Christ,  yet  lie  will  say  unto  them  in  the 
Judgment,  "  I  never  knew  you  :  depart  from 
me,  ye  that- work  iniquity.1'     Maw.  7  :  22, 

23. 

What  two  gates  docs  Christ  tell  us  oi  in  the  7(h  ch.  61 

Matt. 

The  strait  gato  and  the  wide  gate.     13  (h 
and  14th  v's. 

What  is  meant  by  "strait?" 

' .  Narrow  or  difficult. 

To  what  way  docs  this  gate  belong 

To  the  narrow  way,  which  leadeth  to  life 

To  what  way  docs  the  wide  gate  belong  '. 

To  the  broad  way,  which  leadeth  to  de 
struction. 

Which  way  has  the  greater  number  in  it  i 

There  are  "  many  "  in  the  broad  way,  ai:  ! 
tk  lew  "  in  the  narrow  way. 

Tn  which  way  arc  you? 

To  what  does  Christ  compare  thos.c  who  hem  I 
and  Ao  them  i 

To  a  wise  man,  whieh  built  his  house  up- 
on a  rock.  v.  24. 


Wk.. 

"  TIjo  rain  dosci  tided,  and  Urn 
and    the  winds  blew,  and  beat    upon  that 
house;   and  it  foil  not:  for  it  was  founded 
upon  a  rock."  v.  25. 

What  arc  wc  taught  in  this  verse  i 

That  genuine  christians  shall  riot  be  dis- 
appointed in  their  hope  of  heaven  by  even 
the  most   adverse  outward  circumstances. 

aristians  build  theiir  hope  of  heaven  upon  ;i  rock? 

They  do ;  upon  the  rock,  Christ.  1  Peter 

2  :  L  * 
Why  is  Christ  compared  to  a  rock  ?    ' 

Because  of  his  iirmiicss,  stability  anddu- 
rability. 

*   To  what  does  Ohrist  compare* those  who  hear   hi 
ings  and  do  them  not  ? 

To  a  foolish  man,  wlio  built  his  house 
upon  the  sand. 

What  docs  he  soy  of  such  a  hoii 

"The  rain  descended,  and  the  floods 
came,  and  the  winds  blew,  and  beat  upon 
that  house,  and*  it  fell ;  and  great  was  the 
faff  of  it*'     v.  27. 

What  do  wc  learn  from  this  ? 

That  those  who  built  their  hope  of  heav- 
en upon  an  improper  foundation,  will  not 
lie  able  to  stand  in  the  day  of  trial;  and 
that  the  loss  of  the  soul  is  great. 

Whcn  the  people  had  heard  these  wonderful  teachings 


oi  Chi  i  ':    on   the  mount,  hew  VW 

aife<  I  ■ 

They  "  wore  astonished  at  his  doctrine ; 
for  he  taught  them  as  one  having  authori- 
ty, and  not  as  the  scribes.*'     vs.  28,  29. 

lf<Jw  should  wc  be  affected. at  the  tcael] 

We  should   believe,  and   obey  them 
cause  they  are  of  divine  authority,  and 

intended  for  our  good. 

Strait  is  the  way,  the  doeh 

That  leads  to  joys  on  high  : 
'Tis  but  a  lew  that  lind  Che 

While  crowds  mistake  ami 

Beloved  self  must  be  denied, 

The  mind  and  will  renewed  , 
Passion  suppressed,  and  paticn 

And  vain  desircs.subdued. 

Lord,  can  a  feeble,  h-..  l|  i. . ...     i  ornj 

Fulfill  a  task  so  hard  •'. 
Thy  ^race-must  all  the  wm  I 

And  give  the  Tree  reward. 


LESSON  XV  J  I. 

Miracles  of    Christ. 

Vv  hen  <  Ihrist  had  ended  hi 
nd  came  down,  who  followed  him 

'An  '    n  ml  tit ud 

T:ttl .  3 

A  1' 


What  is  a  leper? 

A  .  person  afflicted   with     the    leprosy  ; 

which  disease  spreads  itself  entirely  .over' 
the  system,  and  is  incurable  by  man. 

J3id  Christ  heal  this  leper  ?  %      ■• 

He  did.     Matt.  8  :  3. 

What  may  we  learn  from  this  cure  which  Christ  effec- 
ted 

We  learn  these  two  things  :  1st,  The  com 
passion  of  Christ  for  the  afflicted;  2nd,  His 
divinity;  because  he  worked  a  miracle. 

What  may  we  infer  from  this  cure  ? 

That  as  Christ  healed  the  leper  who  cried 
unto  him,  so  he  will  heal  our  souls  of  the 
malady  of  sin  if  we  cry  unto  him. 

Was  this  the  first  miracle  which  Christ  performed  3 

I  suppose  not:  the  first. seems  to  have 
been  Deformed  in  Gana  of  Galilee,  when  lie 
turned  the  water  into  wine  at  the  marriage. 
John,  chap.  2. 

What  ).■  a  miracle  8 

It  is  .a  work  not  according  to  the  ordina- 
ry operations  of  nature,  and  can  be  perform 
ed  only  by  divine  power. 

Qan  you  mention  any  others  whom  Christ  healed  ? 

Tic  healed   the  centurion's  servant  with- 
out   seeing  him,    and    also    Peter's   wife's 
mother,  and  east  our  many  evil  spirits,  and 
liealed  many  other  sick   people.,   Matl 
IV  10.        . 


Wluii    i 

A    Roman   officer   who  Lad  charge 

hundred  soldiers. 

What  remarkable    miracle  did  phrist  perform  in  the 
j  uagogue  1 

He  commanded  an  unclean  spirit  to  <■ 

out  of  a  man,  and  lie  came  out*  Mark  1  :  26. 

What  Jul  the.  man  say  when  he  saw  Chris!   .' 

"lie  cried  out,  saying,  Let!   us   alone: 
what  have  we  to  do  with  thee,  thou  Jesus 
of  Nazareth?  art  thou  come  to  destroy  us  ? 
I  know  thee  who  thou  art,  the  Holy  One  of' 
God."  v.  24. 

Whose  language  was  this,  the  man's  or  the  evil  spirit's  I 

The  words  were  spoken  by  the  man,  but 
he  spoke  them  under  the  influence  of  the 
evil  spirit. 

To  whom  did  Christ  attribute  the  language  3 

To  the  spirit ;  for  he  commanded  him  to 
hold  liis  peace,  and  to  come  out  of  the  man. 

v.  25. 

How  were  the  pcop  le  affected  at  this  miracle  .' 

TLrey  were  greatly  amazed,  saying  "  what 
new  thing  is  this?  what  new /doctrine  is 
this?  for'  with  authority  he  commandeth 
even  the  unclean  spirits,  and  they  do  obey 
him."  Mark  1 :  27. 

What  were  these  unclean  spirits  ?    . 

They   were    demons,    which  had   taken . 
wonderful  possession   of  certain  persons  in 
those  days. 


I  To  did  :  lie  rebuked   the  wind, 
dtied  the  tempest  of  the  sea  ;  and  there  was 
i  great  calm.     Matt  8  :  23—26.     . 

How  were  those  affected  who  saw  this*  miracle  ' 

They  marveled  and  said,  "  what  manner 
ol  man  is  this,  that  even  the. winds  and  the 
sea  obey  him."     Matt.  8  :  27,  Mark  1 :  27. 

Why  do  you  suppose  the  people  were  amazed  at  this 
miracle  2 

Because  of  an  opinion  held  by  the  Mews- 
that  none-but  God  could  control  the  wind, 
but  that  many  miracles  connected  immedi- 
ately with  the  face  of  the  earth  could  be 
performed  by  man. 

With   this  opinion,   what    thought   seemed  natural  to 
up  in  their  minds,  when  they  saw  this  miracle  pqr- 

They  thought  that  God  was  with  them 
.1  human  jjornh 
Upon  whut  3ea  was  this  miracle  performed  \ 

irhaps  it  wras  the  sea  of  Galilee. 

Who  met  Christ  when  lie  crossed  the  sea  and  b$ 

U  !i  into  the  country  of  the  (iergescnes* 

There  met  him  a  wild  man,  possessed 
with  a  legion  of  devils,  who  had  his  dwell 
tng  among  the  tombs,  and  he  was  execed^- 
ingly  fierce,  or  vicious,  so  that  no 'man 
could  pass  that  way.  Matt.  8 :  28—34, 
Mark  5 :  1—17. 

What  did  Cliiist  do  lor  this  man? 


ITe  cast.  Ihc  devils  out  of  him, 
"What  I" ■■■  devil  i : 

They  went  into  a  herd  ot  swine,  and  the 
swine  turned  crazy,  and  ran  down  into  the 
sea  and  were  drowned. 

What  is  said  of  the  man? 

lie  was  found  sitting,  and  clothed,  and 
in  his  right  mind." 

After  thisgreat  work  had  been  d  i,  whal 

did  he  desire  - 

lie  desired  to  be  with  Jesus  .  Mark  5  : 
18.* 

What  Jd  Christ  tell  him  I 

He  told  him   to  go  homo  to  Iris  friends, 

and  tell  them  how  great  things   the   Lord 

had  done  for  him.  v.  19. 

Did  he  obey  Christ  rather  than  lollow  bis  own  u-. 
i  ion  2 

'  He  did  :  "  he  departed,  and  began  to  pub- 
lish in  Decapolis  how  great  things  Jcsns  had 
done  for  him :  and  all  men  marveled.'"  v.  20< 

What  may  we  learn  from  this  fact  % 

We  may  learn  two  things:  1st,  That  when 
Christ  has  compassion  on  a  sinner,  and  par- 
dons his  sins,  ii  is  right  for  him  to  m;: 
known  ;  and  2nd,  That  at  home  anion 
friends  is  the  place  to  begin, 

■And  didst  thou,  JtfSUfi  i.M    - 

When  veiled  in  human  "lay, 

'And 


GO 

Didst  thou  regard  tlic  beggar's  cry, 

And  cause  the  blind  to  see? 
Thou  Son  of  David,  hcai—  O,  hear- 
-  Have  mercy,  too,  on  me. 

And  didst  thou  pity  mortal  woe, 
And  sight  and  health  restore  ( 

(),  pity,  Lord,  and  save  my  soul,  . 
•Which  needs  thy  mercy  more. 

Didst  thou  thy  trembling  servant  n 
When  sinking  in  the  wave  % 

I  perish,  Lord;  O,  save  my  soul  ; 
For  thou  alone  canst  save. 


LESSON  XVI11. 

The  Miracles  of  Christ. 

(Jin  :,  When  Christ  passed  over  to-the  other  side  ii  I  hi 
sea  «f  Galilee,  who-met  him  'i 

Ans.  A  man  named  Jairus,  who  was  a 
' ruler  of  the  synagogue.     Mark  5  :  20. 

What  did  Jairus-  desire  ? 

He  besought  Christ  greatly  that  he  won  I  d 
go  and  heal  his  little  daughter,  who  lay  at 
the  point  of  death,  v.  23. 

How  did  Jairus  approach  Christ  i 

lie  fell  down  at  his  feet.   v.  22. 

What  may  we  learn  from  this  fact  ? 

We  may  learn  two  things,  namely:  1st, 
That  Jairus  was  deeply  in  earnest;  2nd, 
That  it  is  proper  to  approach  Ghrisl  in 
great  humility. 


Gl 


Did  Christ  regard  the  prayer  of  Jain 
lie  did;  and  went  with  him. 

What  report  was  brought  to  Jairus  while  he  was  on  his 
way  home  with  Christ '. 

That  his  daughter  was  dead.    v.  35. 

What  did  Christ  say  to  Jairus ! 

"  Be  not  afraid,  only  believe."    v.  30. 

What  did  Christ  then  do  3 

He  went  on  to  the  house  of  Jairus. 

When- he  arrived  at  tho  house  what  did  hesaj-  \ 

"  Why  make  ye  this  ado,  and  weep  \  the 
damsel  is  not  dead,  but  slccpcth."  v.  39. 

Did  those  who  heard  these  words  receive  them  ;i  i 
words  of  mercy  and  grace  i 

They  did  not,  but  they  regarded  them  as 
words' of  folly,  for  '''they  laughed  him  to 
scorn."  v.  40. 

Do  not  many  now  regard  the. gracious  words  of  Clin 
in  the  same  light  ?  % 

They  do ;  and  it  is  folly  and  shame  in 
them  so  to  do. 

What  did  Christ  then  do  ? 

He  went  into  the  room  where  the  dead 
child  was  lying,  with  her  father  and  mother, 
and  took  her  by  the  hand,  and  said  unto 
her,  "Damsel,  arise,"  and  she  immediately 
arose,  and  walked,  v's  40 — 42, 

How  old  Avar,  this  little  girl  ? 

About  twelve  years  old. 
Prayer  is  the      , 


What  ecu  pliuj     '       flit  may  we  derive,  from  this  nara- 

tive  '•'. 

That  when'  Christ  is  engaged  in  a  work 
of  mercy  and  grace,  lie  is  not  turned  aside 
from  its  performance  by  the  scoffs  and  jeers 
of  unbelievers. 

What  remarkable  occurence  took  place  while  Christ 
,vr^  on  Ids  way  to  th    house  of  Oarius? 

A  woman  who  was  greatly  diseased,  and 
could  not  be  cured  by  the  pnysieians,  went 
up  behind  Christ,  in  the  great  crowd,  and 
touched  his  garment  and  was  immediately 
cured,  v's  25 — 34. 

What  did  this  woman  say  about  tins  matter  ? 

She  said,  "  If  I  may  but  touch  his  clothes, 
1  shall  be  whole."  v."  28. 

What  Joes  this  saying-of  the  woman  show  ? 

It  shows  that  she  had  great  faith. 

What  ir'd  Christ  say  aApr  the  woman   had  touched  b; 

:S? 

He  said,  "  Who  touched  my  clothes?"  v. 

Why  did  he  ask  this  question  ? 

Because  he  felt  that  \  Hue  had  gone  out 
i.rhim.'v.  30. 

What  reply  did  his  disciples  make  M)  his  qucs&oiij 

They  said  unto  him,  "Thou  "seest  the  mu! 
1 1 1  ade  thrdhging  thee,  and  sayest  thou,  who 

Ion  died  me  V7 


Tin 

knowing  what  wag  done  hi  h<  r,  (dine  arid 
fell  down  before  him,  and  fold  Iiini  all  the 
truth-"    v.  SSI 

Wluii  did  Christ  thou  say  to  hcrl 

"Daughter  thy  faith  hath  ufade  thee 
wholgfgo  in  peace, -and  be  Whote  of  tin 
plague,"    v.  34. 

What  important  religious  truth   dd  * 

The  great  power  of  faith  m  Christ    I 

to  us  the.  blessings  we  need. 

sire  ' 


>••  grace, 
Where'er  it  i    bestowed  ; 

:    Is  ;i  high,    I 

And  is  the  gift  of  God. 

.Testis  it  owns  as  King, 
And  all-atoning  Pri< 

i!  claims  no  mei 
But  looks  for  aH  in  Ch'risl 


Do  bim  it  loads  the  soul, 

When  idled  with  dci 
Plies  to  the  fountain  oi  his  blood, 

And  trusts  his  righl 

tie  thy  work  alone, 
And  that  divinely  free, 
Lord,  send  the  Spirit  of  thy  Son. 
To  work  this  faith  in  mo. 


LESS0H  XIX 

rlhe  Aliraclcs  of  Christ. 

When  Christ  was  in  the  coast  of  Tyre  and  Sidon^ 
■aIjo  came  to  Mm !    Matt.  15:  21—28. 

Ans.  A  woman  of  Canaan,  of  the  same 
coast,  who  was  a  gentile. 

What  did  she  desire  ? 

That  he  would  heal  her  daughter,  who 
was  grievously  vexed  with,  a  devil.     . 

Did  he  immediately  grant  her  request? 

He  did  not:  "he  answered  her  not  a 
word."    v.  23. 

What  did  his  deoiples  desire  him  to  do  ?, 

They  requested  him  to  send  her  away . 

Why  did  they  make  this  request  ? 

Because  they  felt  disturbed  by  her  inces- 
sant cries ;  for  they  said,  "  she  crieth  after 
ns."   v.  23. 

What  did  Christ  then  say  % 

lie  said,  "  I  am  not  come  but  unto  the 
lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel."  v.  24. 

What  encouragement  may  lie  derived'  from  this  saying 
Lstl 

That  he  is  the  friend  of  lost  sinners,  es- 
pecially of  those  who  truly  feel  their  condi- 
tion. 

How  did  it  aifeet  the  woman? 

"  Then  she  came  and  worshiped  him  say- 
Lord,  help  me."  v.  25. 


WhuL  did  Ohrisl   ll     n     ;n    l-    Iici 

u  It  fa; not  mcol  to  take  the  children's 
bread  and  to  cast  it  to  dogs."  v.  26. 

What  is  meant  by  t1 

By  '.'cteldr    .'  meant   the  Jews,  by 

"dogs"    is    meant  the    Gentiles,    and   by 
"  bread''   is    meant   the     blessings  which 
I  had  to  bestow. 
I  docs  all  this  put  together  seem  to  u-  i 
Tli at  it  was  not  according  to  regular  or- 
der to  offer  the  blessings  of  the  gospel  to  the 
Gentiles,  until  a  full  oner  had  been  made  to 
the  Jews. 

■    Why  did  Christ,  who  was  all  goodness, 
low  term  as  "  d<>g"  to  designate  the.  Genii'- 

This  being  a  term  of  reproach  used  by 
the  Jews  in  regard  to  the  Gentiles,  he  used 
it,  no  doubt,  to  test  her  faith  and  humanity. 

What  was  the  woman's  reply  to  Christ       « 

"Truth  Lord;  yet  the  dogs  eat  of  the 
crumbs  which  fall  from  their  master's  ta- 
ble."'    ' 

What  did  she  mean  by  this  answer  '. 

She  meant,  no  doubt,  that  when  the  Jews 
were  well  supplied,  she. was  willing  to  take 
the  meanest  portion  of  the  benefits  of  Christ. 

And  must  not  every  one  who  approaches  Christ  | 
i  lar  spirit  to  this  'I 

llo  mubt.  lie  must  be  willing  to  have 
just  what  Christ  will  give,  to  receive  WfJJ 
thing  at  all. 


G6 


What  did  Christ  finally  say  to  the  wftmali  I  afid  -vfhal 
happened  to. her  daughter? 

He  said  unto  her,  "  woman,  great  is  thy 
faith :  be  it  unto  thee  even  as  thou  wilt. 
And  her  daughter  was  made  whole  from 
that  very  hour."  v.  28. 

After  this  where  did  Christ-go?  and  who  came  unto 
him? 

He  went  up  on  a  mountain  near  the  sea 
of  Galilee,  and  a  great  multitude  came  un- 
to him,  bringing  with  them  the  lame,  the 
blind,  the  dumb,  the  maimed,  and  many 
others  ;  and  cast  them  down  at  Jesus'  feet ; 
and  he  healed  them,  v's  29,  30. 

How  were  the  people  affected  when  they  saw  these  won- 
derful miracles  ? 

They  "  wondered,  when  they  saw  the 
dumb  to  speak,  the  maimed  to  be  whole, 
the  lame  to  walk,  and  blind  to  see :  and' 
they  glorified  the  God  of  Israel."  v.- 31. 

How  shoul*  we- be  affected  when  we  see  Christ's  won- 
derful works  of  mercy  and  grace  to  mankind  ? 

We  should  also,  glorify  the  God  of  Israel. 

Christ  was  now  in  the  wilderness,  with  four  thousand 
people  around -him,  and  they  were  hungry,  and  had  »o 
bread  but  seven  loaves,  and  a  few  little  fishes— what  did 
he. do  ?.'■'■ 

He  blessed  that  bread  and  the  fishes,  and 
broke  them,  and  fed  the' whole  multitude  ; 
and  when  they  had  all  eaten  they  had  more 
left  than  they  had  at  the  beginning ;  for  they 
took  up  of  what  remained  seven  baskets 
Matt.  15:  32—38. 


How  was  this  ? 

It  was  a  great  miracle.  The  bread  and 
the  fishes,  under  the  blessing  of  Christ, 
greatl  y  m ii  1  tipli ed . 
What  may  we  learn  from  this  remarkable  miracle  1 
That  Christ  can  supply  our  greatest 
wants,  under  the  most  pressing  circum- 
stances. 


A  friend  there  is — your  voices  join, 
Ye  saints,  to  praise  his  name — 

Whose  truth  and  kindness  are  divine, 
Whose  love's  a  constant  flame. 

When  most  we  need  his  gracious  hand, 

This  friend  is  always  near; 
With  heaven  and  earth  at  his  command. 

He  waits  to  answer  prayer. 

His  love  no  end  or  measure  knows, 
£Jo  change  ean  turn  its  course ; 

Immutably  the  same  it  flows 
From  one  eternal  source. 


LESSON  XX. 

'  TJie  Miracles  of    Christ. 

Que*.  I>id  Christ  feed  any  others  by  miracle  betides  hie 
four  thousand  of  which  we  spake  in  the  proceeding  lea- 
son  '. 

Jlns.  He  did.  He  fed  five  thousand  on 
another  occasion,  in  a  similar  way.  Mark 
6:  33—44. 


08 

How  many  loaves  and  fishes  had  he  to  begin  with  on 
this  occasion  ? 

Five  loaves  and  two  fishes. 

How  many  baskets  full  of  the  fragments  were  taken  up 
on  this  occasion  ? 

Twelve. 

After  this  miracle,  where  did  Jesus  send  his  disciples  ? 

He  sent  them  by  ship  to  the  other  side  of 
the  lake  of  Gennesareth.  Mark  G  :  45. 

What  kind  of  a  place  was  Gennesareth  ? 

It  was  a  city,  situate  at  the  north  end  of 
lake  Gennesareth  jnst  where  the  river  Jor- 
dan flows  into  the  lake. 

Where  did  Christ  then  go  ? 

He  went  up  on  a  mountain  to  pray.  v.  4G. 

What  does  this  circumstance  teach  us  ?. 

It  teaches  us  the  great'  importance- of 
prayer. 

What  kind  of  voyage  had  the  disciples  in  crossing  the 
lake  ? 

They  had  rather  a  hard  voyage  ;  for  the 
wind  was  contrary,  and  they  had  to  toil 
much  in  rowing,  v.  48. 

While  thus  toiling  in  the  ship,  what  did  they  see  i 

They  saw  Jesus  walking  on  the  sea,  and 
thought  that  it  was  a  spirit,  and  were  afraid 
until  he  spake  unto  them,  v's  48,  4f>. 

•  What  did  he  say  to  them  ? 

"  Ee  of  good  clieer :  it  is  I ;  h&  not 
afraid."  v,  50. 


09 


What  happened  when  Christ  went  into  the  ship* 

The  wind  ceased,  v.  51. 

Did  you  ever  know  a  man  to  walk  on  the  water?    • 
What  consoling  thought  may  be  derived  from  this  cir- 
cumstance ?  • 

That  Christ  is  often  near  his  people  in 
times  of  trouble  and  danger,  to  protect  and 
comfort  them,  when  they  are  least  thinking 
of  his  presence. 

What  wonderful  tilings  happened  when  Christ  had 
gotten  over  into  the  lana  of  Genncsarcth  '. 

Wherever  he  went,  into  villages,  or  cities, 
or  country,  the  people  laid  the  sick  in  the 
streets,  and  besought  him  that  they  might 
touch  but  the  border  of  his  garment;  and 
as"  many  as  touched  him  were  made  whole. 
v50,  Matt,  U:  36. 

What  remarkable  miracle  did  Christ  perform  in  Beth- 
saida*  Mark  S  :  22— 2fi. 

He  restored  a  blind  man  to  his  sight,  by 
:  spitting  on  his  eyes,  and   laying  his  hands 
on  him. 

Did  this  man  see  clearly  at  first? 

•    He  did  not ;.  for  he  said  that  he  saw  men 
as  trees  walking.     . 

What  did  Christ  then  do  to  him  ? 

'  He  laid  his  hands  on  his  eyes  again  ;  and 
he  was  restored,  ah(J  saw  -every  man  clear- 

What  may  we  leajo  lrom  this  miracle? 

That  Christ  will  not  leave  a  work  half 


70 

done  which  he  undertakes,  but  will  com- 
plete it. 

•  There  is  another  remarkable  account  of  a  blind  man  be- 
ing restored  to  sight  by  Christ — can  you  tell  me  where  it 
is,  and  something  about  it?-. 

It  is  recorded  in  the  9th  chapter  of  John. 
The  man  was  born  blind  ;  Christ  spit  on 
the  ground  and  made  clay  and  anointed 
the  eyes  of  the  man  with  it ;  sent  him  to 
the  pool  of  Siloam  to  wash  his  eyes ;  he 
went  and  washed,  and  returned  seeing. 

Where  was  the  pool  of  Siloam  ? 

It  was  near  the  eastern  wall  of  the  temple 
in  Jerusalem. 

What  took  place  among  the  Pharisees  in  consequence 
of  this  miracle?  »• 

A  controversy  in  regard  to  Christ.  Some 
said  he  was  not  of  God,  and  others  said, 
"how  can  a  man  that  is  a  sinner  do  such 
miracles  ?" 

What  did  the  man  wheha'd  been  blind  say  of  Christ  S 

He  said  "He  is  a  prophet." 

What  did  the  Jews  do  in  this  matter  ? 

They  held  a  long   controversy  with  the 
man   in  regard  to  Christ;  and  when   the 
man     manifested     great     attachment     for. 
Christ,  they  cast  him  out  from  their  soeie: 

ty. 

\V  ho  met  the  man  after  this  ? 

Jesus  met  him,  and  comforted  him  ;  and 
revealed  himself  to  him   as  the   Messiah ; 


and  the  man  believed  in   liini,  and  worship 
ed  Jiini. 

Ought  not,  allot'  us  to  believe  in  Jdiua,    and    worship 

hnn  ! 


One  there  is,  above  all  others,    ' 
Well  deserves  the  name  of  Friend  ! 

His  is  love  beyond  a  brother'9, 
Costly,  freej  and  knows  no  end. 

Win  oh  of  all  our  friends,  to  save  us, 
Could  or  would  have  shed  his  blood 

But  this  Saviour  died  to  have  us 
Reconciled  in  him  to  God. 

When  he  lived  on  earth  abased, 
Friend  of  sinners  was  his  name  : 

Now,  above  all  glory  raised, 
lie  rejoices  in  the  same. 

0  !  for  grace  our  hearts  to  soften  ; 

Teach  us,  Lord,  at  length  to  love  ; 
We,  alas  !  forget  too  often 

What  a  friend  we  have  above. 


LESSON  XXI. 

The  Miracles  of  Chri-sl. 

What  notable  miracle  did  Jesus  perform  ne 
city  of  I\'ainf  Luke  7  :  11—18. 

He  restored  to  life  a  young  man  who  was 
being  carried  to  his  burial. 

Whose  son  was  this  young  man  '. 

He  was  the  only  son  Of  a  widow,    v.  12. 

Were  there  many  people  accompanying  the  corpse   to 
the  grave  ? 


72 


There  were.     v.  12. 

What  inference  may  be  drawn  from  this  fad 

That  the  young  man  and  his  mother  were 
persons  of  some  distinction. 

What  influence  would  this  fact  have  on  the  miracle  .' 

It  wonld  give  it  greater  currency  in  the 
community,  and  place  the  fact  of  its  per- 
formance beyond  the  power  of  contradic- 
tion. 

How  was  Jesus  exercised  towards  the  mother  of  the 
young  man  when  he  saw  her? 

"  He  had  compassion  on  her,  and  said  un- 
to her,  weep  not."   v.  13. 

What  did  he  then  do  ? 

"  He  came  and  touched  the  bier ;  and  they 
that  bare  stood  still.  And  he  said,  young 
man,  I  say  unto  thee  arise.  And  he  that  was 
dead  sat  up,  and  began  to  speak.  And  he 
delivered  him  tohis'mother."  verses  11, 15. 

What  did  the  people  say-about  Christ? 

They  said,  "  that  a  great  prophet  is  risen 
up  among  us  ;  and,  that  God  hath  Adsitcd 
his  people."  v.  16.   * 

Did  Christ  raise  any  one  else  from  the  dead  ? 

.  He  did;  he  raised  up  Lazarus,  after  lie 
had  been  dead  four  days,  and  was  buried. 
John,  chap.  11. 

Where  did  Lazarus  live  ? 

In  the  town  of  Bethany. 

Who  were  his  sisters? 


Martha  and  Mary. 

j«W'hat  did  Martini  say  to  Chris*    when  lie  told  her  that 
her  brother  should  rise  again  1 

She  said,  u  I  know  that  he  shall  rise  again 
in  the  resurrection  at  that  last  day."  v.  24. 

What  did  Jesus  then  wy  to  her  ! 

He  saidj  "I  am  the  resurrection,  and  the 
life:  he  that  believeth  in  me,  though  he 
were  dead,  vet  shall  he  live*"  v.  25. 

Hew  was  Jesus  alf'ected  when  he  saw  the  great  distress 

Loned  by  the  death  of  Lazarus  '. 

"  Jesus  wept.'1  v.  35. 

What. may  we  learn' from  this  fact? 

That  Jesus  has  a  deep  sympathy  for  the 
distresses  and  sufferings  of  his  people. 

.  What  did  the  Jews  say   when   they  saw  Jesus   weep 
mg  i 

They  said,  "  Behold  how  he  loved  him." 

When  Jesus  came  to  the  grave  of  Lazarus,  what  did  he 
do  to  raise  him  from  the  dead1* 

"  He  cried  with  a  loud  voice,  Lazarus, 
come  forth." 

What  then  happened  I 

"  And  he  that  was  dead  Game  forth,  bound 
fend  and  foot  with  grave  clothes ;  and  his 
face  was  bound  about  with  a  napkin." 

is  not  the  time  coming  when  all  the  dead  will  be  raise. 1 
it  the  bidding  of  (Jhristl 

It  is;  "for  the  hour  is  coming,,  in  the 
which  all  that  are  in  the  graves  shall  hear 
his  voice,  and  shall  come  forth  ;   they  that 


*liave  done  good,  unto  the  resurrection  of 
life  :  and  tliey  that  have  done  evil,  unto  the 
resurrection  of  damnation."      John  5  :   28, 

29.    ' 

Can  you  now. name  the  several  kinds  of  miracles  which 
Christ  performed  ? 

lie  turned  water  into  wine,  he  cleansed 
the  lepers,  lie  gave  sight  to  the  blind  and 
hearing  to  the  deaf,  he  Jpaused  the  dumb  to 
speak  and  the  lame  to  walk,- he  restored  the 
maimed  to  soundness  and  healed  all  manner 
of  diseases,  he  fed  the  hungry  and  stilhul 
the  raging  of  the  sea,  he  cast  out  devils  and 
raided  the  dead.* 

What  mjist  we  say 'of  one  who  can  perform  such  mira- 
cles as  these  3 

That  he  is  God  manifest  in  the  flesh,  and 
is  altogether  worthy  of-  our  adoration  and 
worship.. 


Jesus,  my  Lord,  I  own  thee  God, 
Earth  sprang  to  being  at  thy  nod  ; 
All  things  were  made  by  thee,  the  Word, 
Who  wa.-.t,  with  (!«»d,  as*  GTocL  adored. 

Before  the  world's  firm  base  was  laid, 
Thy  glorious  Godhead  was  displayed  ; 
And  after  Worlds  have  ceased  to  be, 
Thy  praise  shall  fill  eternity. 

Thou,  gracious  Lord,  my  soul  would  own 
The  power  t<>  save  is  thine  aloiir  ; 
<  »Vi  me  assert  thy  .-.o\  ej-ci.-'n   will. 
And  be  my  God."  my  Saviour  '.till 


■  75 

LKSSON  XXII. 

« 

The  Teaching*  of  Christ. 

Ques.   ll"\v  did  Christ  mostly  teach    ' 

Ans.  By  parables. 

What  is  a  parable  ! 

It  is  to  compare,  or  to  place  side  by  Bide. 
J 11  the  parables  of  Christ  he  compares  natn 
ral  things  with  spiritual  things. 

What  is  the  first  parable  of  our  Lord's  which  is  record- 
ed .' 

The  parable  of  the  sower.  Matt.  12, 
Mark  4,  Luke  8. 

On  how  many  sorts  of  ground  did  the  seed  tall  \ 

Some  fell  by  the  way-side  ;  some  on  st<> 
ny  ground  ;  some  among  thorns  ;  and  some 
on  good  ground. 

What  became  of  that' which  fell  by  the  wayside? 

The  fowls  of  the  air  devoured  it. 

What  does  this  represent ? 

It  represents  those  who  hear  the  word  of 
God,  and  "  Satan  comcth  immediately,  and 
Jaketh  away  the  word  that  was  sown  in 
their  Jiearts." 

■What  became   of  the   seed    that   was   sown  on    storr 
hound? 

It  immediately  sprung  up,  because  it  had 
LO  depth  of  earth ;  but  when  the  sun  was 
Lp,  it  was  scorched .;  and  because  it  had  no 

)ot,  it  withered  away.-'  ' 


Wind  class  of  persons  does  this  represent  ■' 
Those  who  received  the 'word  with  gladl 
ness,  but  have  no  root   in  themselves,  and 
endure  for  a  while,  but  fall  away  in 'times'; 
of  persecution,  v's  16,  17. 

What  is  meant  by  "  have  no  root  in  themselves  ."' 

It  means,  no  doubt,  that  religion  is  not 
truly  fixed  in  their  .hearts. 

What  became  of  the  seed  that  was  sown  among  bhorirt  ' 

It  grew  up,  and  was  choked,  and  yielded 
no  fruit. 

What  class  of  persons  does  this  represent  ? 

"Such  as  hear  the  word,  and  the  cares oi' 
this  world,  and  the  deceitfulness  of  riches, 
and  the  lusts  of  other  things  entering  in,, 
choke  the  word,  and  it  becometh  unfruit- 
ful." .      ' 

What  became  of  the  seed  that  was  sown  on  good  ground  ? 

It  grew  up .  and  increased,  and  yielded 
fruit ;  some  thirty,  some  sixty  and  some  an 
hundred  fold. 

What  class  of  persons  does  this  represents 

It  represents  genuine  christians,  who 
bear  the  fruits  of  holiness — some  thirty, 
some  sixty  and  some  an  hundred  fold — and 
in  the  end  have  everlasting  life.  v.  201 
Horn.  6  :  22. 

Who  does  the  sower  in  the  parable  represent  '. 

It  represents  Christ. 

How  is'  Christ  now  sowing  the  word  3 


77 


By  his  oihjisters,  ;ui<l  ;tll  others  of  his 
people  who  are  engaged  in  spreading  reli- 
gious truth  in  the  world. 

What  parable-,  similar  to  the  one  alread  j  red,  did 

Christ  give  us,  illustrative  of  the  kingdom  ofhattven'i 

The  parable  of  the  good  so^d  and  the 
tares.  Matt  13:  24-T-30. 

Who  sowed  the  good  seed  \ 

Christ:  Matt.  13:  37. 
Satan  or  the  devil.  Matt. 

What  is  the  field  in  which  these  »  -wlx  ? 

The  world. 

Who  are  the  good  seed  '. 

The  children  of  the  kingdom'.  V.  38. 

Who  are  the  tares? 

The  children  of  the  wicked  one.  v.  38. 

What  i's  the  harvest  \ 

The  end  of  the  World;  v.  39. 

Who  are  the  reapers  ' 

The  angels,  v.  39. 

What  is  to  be  done"  with  the  tares,  or  the  offenders 
against  Godwin  this  great  harvest' 

They  shall  be  cast  into  a  furnace  of  fire, 
where  there  shall  be  wailing  and  gnashing 
of  teeth,  v.  42.  . 

What  will  become  of  the  good  seed,  or  the  righteous  ? 

They  shall  shine  forth  as  the  sun  in  the 
.  kingdom  of  their  Father,  v.  43. 

Iu  wh%h  company  do  you  hope  to  be  ? 


78 


This  is  the  field,  the  world  below, 
Where  wheat  and  tares  together  grow  . 
"Where  oft  we  sec,  in  mingled  band, 
Sinners  and  saints  together  stand  ; 
But  soon  the  reaping-time  will  come, 
And  angels  shout  the  harvest  home. 

We  seem  as  one,  when  thus  we  meet, 
And  bow  before  the  mercy-seat ; 
But  to  the  Lord's  all-searching  eyes, 
Each  heart  appears  withoutdisguise  ; 
And  soon  the  reaping-time,  tfec. 

To  love  my  sins,  a  saint  t'  appear, 
To  grow  with  wheat,  ajid  be  a  tare, 
May  serve  me  while  on.  earth  below, 
Where  tares  and  wheat  together  grow  ; 
But  soon  the  reaping-time,  &c 

Most  awful  truth  !  And  is  it  so  ? 
Must  all  mankind  the  harvest  know  .' 
Is  every  one  a  wheat  or  tare  ? 
Me  for  the  harvest,  Lord,  prepare-; 
For  soon.the  reaping-time,  &c. 

Then  all  who  truly  righteous  are, 
Shall  in  their  Father's  Kingdom  share. 
But- tares  in  bundles  shall  be  bound, 
And  cast  in  hell.     O,  doleful  sound  ! 
And  soon  the  reaping-time  will  conic. 
And  angels  shout  the  harvest'  home. 


LESSON  XXIII. 


The  Teachings  of  Christ. 

rou  mention  any  other  para 
his  .kingdom  ? 

Ans.  I  can  :  the   parable  of  the  mustard 


Ques.  Can  you  mention  any  .other  parables    of  Christ 
illustrative  of  his  Jvingdom  ?  •> 


79 

seed, — the  parable  of  the  leaven, — the  par- 
able of  the  treasure  in  the  field, — the  para- 
ble of  the  merchant,  and  the  parable  of  the 
net.     Matt,  13. 

How  do  these  different  naraldes  represent  one  and  ilia 
same  kingdom  '. 

They  represent  different  tilings  belonging 
to  that  kingdom. 

In  the  parable  of  the  mustard  seed,  Matt.  13:  31,  32, 
what  does  the  little  mustard  seed  represent  i 

It  represents '  the  word  of  divine  truth, 
which  is  very  small  in  the  estimation  of 
wicked  men,  and  that  the  beginning  of 
Christianity  in  the  world  "is  small. 

What  does  the  sawing  of  this  seed  in  the  field  repre-' 
sent  ? 

It  represents  the  tact  that  God  has  sent 
down  lift  truth  into  this  wicked  world. 

What  dees  the  growing  up  of  this  little  seed  into  a  great 
herb  represent ! 

•  It  represents  the  great  increase  and  ex- 
tension of  Christ's  kingdom  in  the  world. 

What  does  the  lodging  of  birds  in  the  branehes  of  this 
great  herb  represent  i 

It  represents  that  those  who  are  so  dis- 
posed by  divine  grace,  can  find  a  lodge- 
ment in  the  kingdom  of  Christ,  where  they 
may  rest  from  their  weary  wanderings. 

Whal  does  the  parable  of  the  leaven  represent?     Mat- 
13  :  38.  '•  • 

.This  represents,  most   fitly,  the  infhr 


f 
80 

which  the  grace  of  God  has  upon  our  entire 
life,  when  it 'is  deposited  in  our.  hearts.  It 
continues  to  extend  its'  influence;  until  our 
whole  life  is  brought  under  the  authority  of 
Christ. 

Can  you  explain  the  parable  of  the  treasure  hid  in  the 
Held,  which  a  man  found,  and  then  sold  all  he  had  to  buy 
that  held  2    Matt.  13  :  44. 

This  teaches  us,  that  when  a  man  has 
found  the  true  religion  of  Christ,  that  he 
will  give  up  every  other  religious  notion 
for  it. 

What  does  the  paraMo  of  the  merchantman  represent ? 
verses  45,  40. 

This  seems  to  represent  the   same   thing 
►  as  the  other. 

What  is  the  difference  between  the  religion  of  Christ 
and  all  other  religious? 

The  religion  of  Christ  is  true;  *it  came 
from  heaven,  and  leads  to  heaven  ;  all  other 
religion  is  false,  and  leads  to  perdition. 

What  do  we  learn  from  the  parable  of  the  net?  verses 
47,  48. 

We  learn  that  there  are  in  the  church 
both  good  and  bad. 

When  are  the  good  and  the  bad  to  be  separated  &» 

At  the  end  of  tile  world,  v.  49. 

By  whom  is  the  separation  to  be  ma4e? 

By- the  angels,  v.  49. 

What  will  become  of  the  good? 

.They  will  fee  saved,  v.  .48. 


81 


What  will  become  of  the  wioke< 

They  will  be  cast  away  into  a  furnace  ot 
tire.  v.  50.  '  • 

What  do  we  learn  from  this  solemn  declaration  of  our 
Lorctl  .     ■ 

We  learn  that  the  mere  fact  of  a  man's 
being  a  member  of  the  church  will  do  him 
no  good  at  the  judgement  day,  if  he  is  a 
wicked  man;  that  then,  all  wicked  men 
will  share  the  same  fate,  whether  they  are 
members  of  the  church  or  not.  Compare 
verses  42  and  50. 

Is  this  solemn  truth  taught  any  where  else  in  the  New 
Testament' 

It  is,  Luke  13:  2G,  27— "  Then  shall  ye 

begin  to  say,  we  have  eaten  and  drunk  in 

thy  presence,  and  thou  hast   taught  in  our 

streets.     But  he  shall  say,  I  tell  you,  I  know 

you  not  whence  ye  arc ;  depart  from  me  all 

ye  workers  of  iniquity." 

What  practical  influence  should  these  solemn  troths 
have  on  our  lives  ? 

We  should  constantly  examine  ourselves, 
to  see  if  we  are  in  the  faith,  and  pray  earn- 
estly nn to  Gocl  to  suffer  Us  not  to  be  de- 
ceived in  onr  religion. 

When  thou,  my  righteous  Judge,  shall  come 
To  take  thy  ransomed  people  home-, 

Shall  I  among  them  stand  I 
Shall  such  a  worthless  worm  as  I; 
Wlin  sometimes  am  afraid  to  di< 

'Be  found  at  thyright  handl 


I  love  to  meet  thy  people  now, 
Before  thy  feet  with  them  to    bow, 

Though  vilest  of  them  all  ; 
But — can  I  bear  the  piercing  thought  '. — 
•What  if  my  name  should  be  left  out. 

When  thou'for  them  shalt  call  ?  . 

O  Lord,  prevent  it  by  thy  grace  ; 
lie  thou  my"  only  hiding-place, 

In  this  th'  accepted  day  ; 
Thy  pardoning  voice,  0,  let  me  hear, 
To  still  my  unbelieving  fear,. 

Nor  let  me  fall,  I.  pnh  . 

And  when  the  final  trump *khall  sound, 
Among  thy  saints  let  me  be  found, 

To  bow  before  thy  fade  : 
Then  in  triumphant  strains  I'll  situ;-, 
While  hcavenV  resounding  mansions  ping 

W it'u  praise  «>f  sovereign  gratfe. 


LESSOR  XXIV. 

The  Manner  of  Christ's  Livinrj. 
iii  what  manner  did  Christ  live ? 

Akh.  He  lived  as  a  poor  man.  He.  paid 
of  himself:  :"The  foxes  have  holes,  and.  the 
birds  of  the  air  have  nests;  but  the  Son  of 
man  hath  not  where  to  Jay  his  head."  Matt. 

8 :  20. ' 

What  effect  did  the   humble   circumstances   of  Christ 
have  upon  sonic  wh©  heard  him  h 

They  contemned  him,  and  said,  "Is  not 
this  the  carpenter,  the  son  •  of  Mary,  the 
brother  of  James,  and  Joses,  and  of  Juda 


1 


and  Simoft  ?  and  are  not'his   Isten  here  with 
n   r     M*A  6:  3. 

Where  did  this  take  p] 

In  Galilee,  his  own  country,   v.  I. 
Did  not  Christ  teach  with  great  wisdom  on  thi 

MOD  i 

Redid :  insomuch  that  the  people  wore 
greatly  astonished*  that  he  possessed  such 
wisdom,  v.  2. 

What  may  we  learn  from  the  poverty  <>r  <  'Ji'rivi .  and  the 
manner  in  which  liv  was  tra  I  ■  ;'  his  pover- 

ty? 

1st.  That  the  greatest  religious  wisdom 
is  often  I'miiKl  in  the  humbler  walks'  of  life. 
2nd.  That  men  generally  are  influenced  !<><> 
mueli  by  external  circumstances,  in  reli- 
gion, for  God  s  trnth  is  the  same,  whether 
spoken  by  the  rich  or  the  poor. 

Did  Christ  choose  to  be  poor  in  this  world,  rather  than 
rieh  i 

lie  did;  for  be  was  God,  as  well  as  man. 

and  acted  in  this  matter    according    to  his 

sovereign  pleasure. 

Why  did  Christ  choose  alife  of  poverty  while  on  earth  .' 

That  he  might  he    in  nearer  sympathy 

with  the  largest  number  of  people,  and  that 

the  truth  of  his  doctrine  might  be  proved, 

when  he  said,  "  my  kingdom  is  not  of  this 

world." 

But  could  he  uot  have  been  in  equal  sympathy  With  the 
poor  if  he  had  been  rich  I 


It  is  fcrue,  as  God,  he  could,  but  the  poor 
themselves  would  not  have  so  regarded  him  ; 
for,  as  a  general  rule,  the  rich  have  hut  lit- 
tle sympathy  for  the  poor. 

What  other  evidence  docs  Christ  give  of  his  sympathy 
lor  the  poor? 

He  preached  the  gospel  unto  them,  and 
mingled  with  them.  Matt.  11 :  5. 

What  class  of  people  gave  most  attention  to  the  teach  - 
i  age  of  Christ  i 

"  The  common  people  heard  him  gladly." 
Marh-12:  37, 

What  good  reason  can  be  assigned  for*  this  fact .' 

Christ's  manner  of  life,  and  his  mode  of 
teaching,  were  both  .adapted  to  this  class  of 
people. 

What  practical  lesson  may  be  derived  from  Christ's  man- 
ner of  life  ? 

We. learn  that  those  ministers  of  the  gosr 
pel  who  would  follow  Christ  closely,  and 
be  wise  in  winning  souls  to  him,  must 
adapt  their  manner  of  life  to  the  circum- 
stances of  those  for  whom  they  labor. 

Can  you  give  an  example  of  any  of  the  early  preachers 
of  the  gospel  acting  in  this  way? 

Paul,  speaking  of  his  manner  of  life  as  a 
minister  of  the  Gospel,  says:  "I  am  made 
all. things  to  all  men,  that  I  might  by  all 
means  save  some."  1  Cor.  9  :   22^ 

Did  Christ  do  any  thing-wrong  2 


85 


He  did  ii<>  sin,  Neither  was  guile  found  in 
his  month.   1  Peter  2 :  22. 

D'nl  tie mingle with sinners  1 

IK' did;  and  a^o  ate  with  them.  Matt. 
9  :   1 1". 

What  wa"s  Christ  ealled  on  this  account? 

He  was  called,  by  way  of  Reproach,  %*  a 
friend  of  publicans  wad  sinners."  ALatt.  11  : 
19. 

Is  i;  any  reproach  to  Christ  that  Uewas  a  friend  of  sin 
. 

It  is  not ;  but  it  will  be  the  crown  <>f  re 

ipicinghy  redeemed  sinners  for  ever.   Rev. 

'l  :  5,  6.  ' 

What  may  be  said  of  Jhe  manner  of  Christ's  lite,  spe- 
cially claiming  our  imitation  ! 

He  was  often  engaged  in  prayer. 

•     "  Cold  mountains  and  the  midnight  air 
Witnessed  the  fervor  of  his  prater." 

LESSOJST  XXV. 

Christ  rejected  by  the  Jcics. 

.   Were   the    people    who    heard    the   teaohi 
( 'linst  and  sy,w  his  miracles  friendly  toward  him  .' 

Ari&  They  were  not ;  for  many  hated  Li  in 
with  cruel  hatred}  and  persecuted  him. 

Who  were  the  leaders  in  opposition  to  Christ  .' 

The  Scribes  and  Pharisees. 

Who  were  the  Scribew  and  Pharisees  '. 

The  Scribes  were  those  who  were   learn- 


(•din  the  Jewish  law.  The  Pharisees  were 
a  set  of  Jews  who  separated  themselves  from 
the  other  Jews,  as  well  as  from  the  Gen- 
tiles, under  pretenses  of  great  holiness. 

What  did  Christ  teach  his  people    in   regard    to  the 
righteousness  necessary  for  them  to  possess! 

u  Except  your  righteousness  shall  exceed 

that  of  the  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  ye  slrall 

in  no  case  enter  into  the  kingdom  of  heav- 

en."  Matt.  5  :  20. 

To  what  righteousness  does  our    Lord   "here    refer,   as 
necessary  for  his  people  ? 

It,  is,  no  doubt,  the  same  spoken  of  by 
Paul — that  which  is  not  of  the  law,  u  but 
that  Which  is  through  the  faith  of  Christ, 
the  righteousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith." 
Phil.   8:.  9. 

\V3iat  is  this  righteousness  called  by  theologians? 

It  is  called,  the  imputed  righteousness  of 
Christ. 

What  is  meant  by  "  the  imputed  righteousness  oi 
Christ"  i 

It  means  that  when  we  exercise  true  faith 

in  Christ,  his  righteousness  is  placed  to  our 

account,  and  we  have  the   same -benefit  of 

it  as  if. we  had  performed  it  ourselves... 

What  was  tlii'  righteousness  of  the  Scribes  and  Phar'j 
isees  \ 

It  was  their  $>wn  righteousness. 

What  is  said  of  this  kind  of  righteousness.  Isaiah  04-:  6. 

It  is  called   filthy  rags';   which  signifies 


87 


that  it  is  like  a  badly  torn  and  filthy  gar- 
ment, which  would  render  us  unfit  for  de- 
cent company. 

What  did  Christ  eatl  the  Seribos  and  Pharisees  .' 

lie  called  the.  m  hypocrites,  and  fools, 
and  pronounced  terrible  woes  again-sl 
them.     Matt.  23:  13— 19. 

D'ul  not  these  people  perform  many    outward    religious 

They  did,,  see  Matt.  23:  1—7.   , 

What  may  we  learn  from  this  ! 

'That  no    outward  religious  services  will 

avail  us  any    thing  if  our   hearts    are   not 

right  in  the  sight  of  God. 

What  was  the  probable  eaat  Icribee  and  Phari- 

sees' hatred  of  Christ  '. 

It  was,  no  doubt,  on  account  of  his  fre- 
quent* exposure  of  their  hypocracy. 

Did  any  other*",  besides  the  Scribes  and  Pharisees,  bate 

Christ  ? 

They  did.  The  most  of  the  Jews  hated 
him,  and  spoke  evil  of  him,  and  persecuted 
him. 

What  did  they  say  of  him  \ 

They  said  that  he  was  a  gluttonous  man, 
and  a  wine-bibber,  Matt.  11  :  19 — that  he 
was  a  blasphemer,  Matt.  9:  3 — John  10: 
33 — that  he  was  a  Sabbath  breaker,  Jokn 
!> :  16 — and  that  he  had  a  devil.  Jolm  V  : 
2p,  s  :   is.  ;>ii,  and'k>":  20. 


88  . 

Why  did  they  say  that  ho  had  a  devil  ? 

Because  he  accused  them  of  tlieir  wicked- 
ness in  going  about  to  kill  him,  and  declared 
that  he  was  -the  Son  of  God.  John  7  :  19, 
10 :  7— 21. 

Did  the  Jews  attempt  any  personal  violence  agaiast 
Christ  \ 

They  did.  On  one  occasion  they  attempt- 
ed to  cast  him  headlong  over  the  brow  of 
the  hill  on  which  the  city  of  JNazarath  was 
built,  (Luke  4:«  29,)  and, on  several  occa- 
sions took  up  stones  to  cast  at  him.  John 
8:  39,10:  31. 

'  What  does  John  say  of  the  rejection  of  Christ  by  the 
Jews  \  -   ' 

He  says :  "  He  came  unto  his  own,  and 
his  own  received  him  not,"     John  1  r  11. 

-  How  was  Christ  affected  towards  the  Jews  when  they 
had  given  such  repeated  evidence  of  their  rejection  and 
hatred  of  him  ? 

•  On  one  occasion  he  said,  "  O  Jerusalem, 
Jerusalem,  which  killest  the  prophets  and 
„stoncst  them  that  are  sent  imto  thee.;  how 
often  would  I  have  gathered  thy  children 
'together,  as  a  hen  doth  gather  her  brood 
under  her  wings,  .and  ye  would  not :  behold 
your  house  is  left  unto  you  desolate."  Luke 
12  :  31,  35.  And  on  another  occasion,  when 
he  beheld  the  city,  he' wept  over  it,  Luke 
L9:  11. 

What  is'meant  by  the  cxnfesssion,  "Yo.ur  house  is  left 
unto  you  desolate''  ?  .... 


89 
It   means  that  (-Jod  had  forsaken  them. 

What  do  we  learn  from  the-»cofcduct  of  Christ  towards 
the  Jew  after  such  evidences  which  ho  had  of.thefr  re 
jection  and  haired*  of  him  i 

We  Learn  the  tenderness  of  his  heart  even 
towards!  his  worst  enemie 

What  national  calamities  came  upon  the  Jews  on  ac 
cpnul  of  their  rejection  of  Christ  4     ' 

Their  city  (Jerusalem)  and  their  beauti- 
ful temple  were  destroyed  by  the  Romanes, 
and  they  have  been  dispersed  among  all 
nations  of  the  earth,  even  1<>  this  very  time. 

What  will-bo  our  doom  it  we  reject  Christ  ? 

We  will  be  rejected  by  him  in  the  great 
Judgment  day. 

Did  Christ 'o'er  Bounds  weep, 

And  shall  our  cheeks  be  dry  ! 
Let  Jloods  of  penitential  grief 

Burst  forth  from  every  eye. 

The  Son  of  (rod  in  tears 

The  wondering  angels  see  ;    * 
Be  thou  astonished,  0  my  soul  ! 

lie  shed  those  tears  for  thee.    ' 

lie  wept  that  we  might  weep  ; 
•    Each  sin  demands  a  tear; 
In  heaven  alone  no  sin  is  found. 
And  there's  no  weeping  there. 


90 

LESSON  XXVI. 

Sufferings  of  Christ. 

Ques .  -At  what  time  did   the  Sufferings  ami   doath   pi 

(  hrist  take  place? 

Ansf.  At  the  feast  of  the  Passover. 

What  is  meant  by  the-  feast  of  the  Passover  ? 

It  was  a  feast  of  seven  days  continuance, 
kept  by  the  Jews  in  memory  of  their  deliv- 
erance from  Egypt.     Exodus,  chap.  12. 

Did  Christ  keep  this  feast? 

lie  did.  He  kept  it  with  his  disciples  in 
an  upper  room  in  the  city  of  Jerusalem, 
Mark  14:  10—18. 

•What  memorable  thing  did  Jesus  do  at  this  least  3 

He  instituted  wThat  is  called  the  Lord's 
Supper.'  Matt.  26  :'  26—30,  Mark  14  :  22— 
25,  Luke  .22  :  19,  20. 

Where  dfd  Christ  and'his  disciples  go  after  supper  was 
over?  ■    ■ 

They  went  to  the  mount  of  Olives. 

Where  was  Christ  next  seen  ? 

At  Gethsemane,  in  great  agony  and  in 
earnest  prayer.    Matt.  26  :  36—45. 

What  did  Christ  say  to  his  disciples"  on  this  occasion  ? 

He  said  unto  them,  "  My  soul  is  exceed- 
ing sorrowful,  even  unto  death." 

What  does  Luke  say  of  the  manner  in  which  Christ  was 
■  affected  on  this  occasion  ? 

"  And^cing  in   an    agony,  he  prayed 


91 

more  earnestly  :  and  his  sweat  was  as  it 
were  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down  to 
the  ground..5?  ch.  22  :  44. 

Did  you  cvar  sec  or  hear  of  such  intense   suffe 
this  in  ;m\    one  besides  Christ  ! 
Why  were  his  sufferings  BOgrea,t  was  he  afraid  of  death  '. 

lie  was  not  afraid  of  death,  because  he 
had  frequently  declared  that  he  would  rise 
from  the  dead. 

Why  then  was  lie  so  agonized  : 

Because  the  Lord  had  laid  onr  sins  upon 
him,  and  he  was  then  bearing  them  in  his 
own  person,  that  he  might  cancel  them  by 
offering  up  himself  as  an  everlasting  sacri 
lice  unto  God.  Isaiah,  53rd  chapter,  Heb. 
9:li. 

VV^io  appeared  unto  Christ   while  he  was   in  his    ureal 

An  angel  from  heaven,  appeared  unto 
him,  strengthening  him.     Luke  22 :  43. 

Who  came  unto  him  after  this  i 

Judas,  with  a  great  multitude  with 
swords  and  staves  from  the  chief  priests 
and  elders  of  the  people.     Matt.  26  :  47. 

Who  .betapyad.  Christ  1 

Judas  betrayed  him  with  a  kiss.    v.  4&. 

Where  did  these  wicked  people  take  Christ? 

They  took  him  first  to  Caiaphas,  the  high 
priest,   where  they  brought   false  witness 


•92 

against  him,  and  spit  upon  him,  and  smote 
him  with  rods.    Matt.  26  :  60—67. 

Where  did  they  take  him  the  next. morning? 

They  took  him  to  Pontius  Pilot,  the 
governor.  Matt.  27:  1. 

What  did  Pilot  ask'  the  Jews  ? 

Tie  asked  them  whom  he  should  release 
unto  them,  Jesus,  or  Barabbus. 

Whom  did  they  prefer? 

They  chose  Barabbus,  who  was  a  murder- 
er.   Luke  23  :  19. 

What  did  the  Jews  say  must  be  done  with  Christ  '. 

They  said  let  him -be  crucified,  v.  22. 

What  did  Pilot  do  with  Jesus  ? 

He  sent  him  to  Herod,  who  at  that  time 
was  in  Jerusalem.  Luke  23  :  7. 

How  did  Herod  treat  him  ? 

He  set  him  at  nought,  and  mocked  him, 
and.arrayed  him  in  a  gorgeous  robe,  and 
sent  him  again  to  Pilot.    Luke  23  :  11.  - 

After  Pilot  had  heard  all  that  the  Jews  had  to  say 
against  Christ,  was  he  Willing  to  release  him  ? 

He  was,  but  the  Jews  cried  "  crucify 
him,  crucify  him."  Luke "23:  21. 

Did  Pilot  find  any  cause  of  death  in  Christ? 

He  did  not ;  but  the  voices  of  Christ's 
enemies  prevailed  over  his  judgement,  and 
he  delivered'  Christ  into  their  hands.  Luke 
23  :  .22—24. 

Ought  men  to  do  wrong  to  please  the  multitude  ? 


They  ought  not,  but  they  should  do  right 
at  all  times,  and  under  all  circumstanc 

Dark  was  the  night  and  cold  the  ground 
On  which  the  Lord  was  laid  ;  • 

His  sweat  like  drops  of  blood  ran  down  : 
In  agony  he  prayed  : 

"  Father  remove  this  hitter  cup. 

If  such  thy  sacred  will : 
If  not,  content  to  drink  it  up, 

Thy  pleasure  I  fulfil." 

•Go  to  the  garden,  sinner:  see 

Those  precious  drops  that  How  ; 
The  heavy  load  he  bore  for  tlicc  ; 

For  thee  he  lies  so  low. 

Then  learn  of  him  the  cross  to  bear  ; 

Thy  fathers  will  obey  : 
And  when  temptations  press 'the*  near, 

Awake  to  watch  and  pray. 


LESSON  XXYIL 

Christ.    Crucified. 
'J«<:s.  Where  was  Christ  crucified? 

Ana.  At  the  place  called  Calvary  and 
Golgotha,  which  latter  name  sign  Hies  "  a 
place  of  a  skull."  Matt.  27:  33.  , 

Vv' here  is  Calvary  situated? 

A  short  distance  west  of  Jerusalem. 

At  what  time  in  the  day  was  Christ  crucified  ?'    m  . 

It  was  the  thircj  hour  of  the  day,  '  which 


94 


corresponds  to    nine   o'clock  according  to 
our   time.     Mark  15:  25. 

What  is  meant  by  being'  crucified? 

It  was  tlie  Roman  method  of  executing 
those  who  were  condemned  to  die. 

What  is  the  manner  of  crucifying  ? 

There  was  a  long  beam  of  wood  pre- 
pared with  a  cross  beam  near  the  top  end. . 
This  made  the  cross.  It  Wats  laid  on  the 
ground,  and  the  person  to  he  crucified  was 
laid  on  it  with  his  back  next  to  .the  wood. 
His  arms  were  then  extended  on  each  side,, 
and  his  hands  nailed  to  the  cross  beam; 
and  his  jeet  were  extended  on  the  long 
beam  an  derailed  to  it.  Then  the  cross,  with 
the  person  so. fastened  to  it,  was  lifted  up 
in  an  upright  position,  and  the  foot  of  it 
placed  in  a  bole  in  the  earth  prepared  to 
receive  it. 

Who  earned  the  cross  on  which  Christ  was  crucified/ 

He  first  bore  it  himself  and  afterwards  it 
was  borne  by  one  Simon  of  Gyrene.  John 
19-:  17.-  Matt.  2.7:  32. 

What  did  Christ  do  when  he  was  crucified  ? 

He  prayed  for  his  persecutors,  "  Father 
forgive  them,  for  they  know  not  what  they 
do?.'     Luke  23:  34.  ' 

What,  dreadful  exclamation  did  he  make  while  on  the 
cross?' 

He  cried  with  a  loud  voice,  "  My  Gfod, 


95 

my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  m'Cjj"— 
Matt.  27:  46. 

DM  he  say  anything  more  than  this  on  the  cross  : 

lie  did.  lie  said,  "It  is  finished,"  and 
"Father;  into  thy  Land-  I  commend  mv 
spirit,"  (John  ia:  30,  Luke  2S :  46,)  and 
then  bowed  his  Lead  andgaveup  theghost. 

What  was  the  superscription  Pilot  wrote  f 

—'THIS     IS    THE    KING    OF    THE 

JEWS."     Luke  23:  38. 

What  is  meant  by  superscription  I 

It  was  a  Writing  placed  over,  the  person 
who  was  crucified  to  show  who  Le  was. 

In  how  many  languages  was  the  superscription   which 

was  placed  over  Christ  written  i 

In  three — Greek,  Latin,  and  Hebrew. 
Luke  23  :  88.  .       • 

Why  was  it  written  in  these  three  languages  I 

So  that  all  present  could  read  it,  for  there 
were  persons  present  who  spake  and  read 
these  different  languages. 

Were  the  Jews  satisfied  with  this  superscription  '. 

They  were  not ;  but  wanted  Pilot  to  write, 
ktIIe  said,  '  I  am  king  of  the  Jews.'  "  John 
19  :  21. 

What  was  Pilot's  reply  to  this   request  of  ,the   Jews  ' 

'Pilot  answered,  "  What  T  have   written, 
I  have,  written."     John  19  :  22. 

How  long  did  Christ  hang  upon  the  cross  before  he 
died  ? 


OG 


From  the  third  to  the  sixth  hour,  (Mark 
!;> :  33,)  making  three  hours. 

What  remarkable  thing  occurred  at  this  time  I 

There  was  darkness  over  all  the  land 
from  the  sixth  to'the  ninth  hour.  Luke  23  : 
14.  ■'■  .■'...' 

WastMs  darkness  noticed  by  any  other  people   except 
those  of  Judea? 

It  is  said  to  have  been  noticed  by  the 
Egyptian  philosophers,  and  that  they  said, 
"  Surely  the  God  of  nature  must  be  suffer- 
ing;" 

Who  were  crucified  with  Christ  .' 

Two  malefactors,  who  were  thieves,  and 
condemned  to  die  for  their  wickedness. — 
Matt.  27:44,  Luke  23:  39. 

What  did  these  thieves  do  ? 

One  railed  on  Christ,  and  the  other  pray- 
ed, "  Lord,  remember  me  when  thou  comest 
into  thy  kingdom."  ,  Luke  23  :  39—42. 

What  did  Christ  say  to  the  thief  who  prayed  unto  him? 

He  said  unto  him,  "  To-day  shalt  thou  be 
with  me  in  paradise."     Luke  23:  43. 

Stretched  on  the  cross,  the  Saviour  dies 
Jlark  !  his  expiring  groans  arise  ; 
Sec,  from  his  hands,  his  feet,  his  side, 
Descends  the  sacred  crimson  tide. 

And  .didst  thou  bleed  ?— for  sinners  bleed 
And  could  the  sun  behold  the  deed? 
N.o  ;  he  withdrew  his  cheering  ray, 
And  darkness  veiled  the  mourning  day. 


97 
LESSON  XXVIII 

Crucifixion  and  Resurrection  of  Christ. 

Ques.  "What  other  remarkable  things  occurred  at  the 
crucifixion  of  Christ  ? 

Am.  There  was  an  earthquake,  the  vail 
of  the  temple  was  rent  in  twain  from  top  to 
bottom,  and  the  rocks  were  rent.  Matt.  27  : 
51. 

What  is  an  earthquake]? 

It  is  great  shaking  of  the  earth. 

What  is  meant  by  the  vail  of  the  temple  being  rent  in 
twain  3 

A  certain  vail  or  large  cloth  in  the  tem- 
ple which  separated  the  priest  from  the 
people  during  certain  religious  services, 
was  torn  from  top  to  bottom. 

Of  what  does  this  fact  seem  to  bo  a  type  ? 

Of  the  great  fact  that  Christ  as  our  great 
high  Priest,  having  dffered  himself  as  a  sac- 
rifice unto  God  for  our  sins,  every  man  may 
now  approach  God  for  himself  through  the 
sacrifice  of  Christ,  without  the  mediation 
of  any  earthly  priest. 

When  the  centurion  saw  these  things  what  did  he  say? 

He  said,  "  Truly  this  was  the  Son  of  God." 
Matt  27:  54. 

Who  was  this  conturion  ? 

He  was  in  all  probability,  the  officer  who 
had  command  of  the  Eoman  soldiers  on  the 
occasion. 


98 


What  act  of  cruelty  was  performed  upon  the  bodj  of 
Christ  after  he  was  dead  ? 

The  soldier  pierced  liis  side  with  a  spear, 
and  there  ran  out  blood  ar«d  water.  John 
19:34.- 

Who  buried  Christ ! 

Joseph,  of  A  rimathea,  who  was  a  disciple 
of  Christ,  and  a  rich  man,  and  a  counsellor. 
Matt.  27  :  57,  Luke  23  :  50. 

How  did  Joseph  obtain  the   body  of  Christ? 

_  He  begged  it  of  Pilot.  Matt,  27  :  58. 

How  was  the  body  of  Christ  buried  ? 

Joseph  wrapped  it  in  ax  clean  linen  cloth, 
and  laid  it  in  his  own  new  tomb,  which  he 
had  hewn  out  of  a  rock,  and  rolled  a  great 
stone  at  the  door.  Matt  27  :  59,  60. 

Who  assisted  Joseph  in  the  burial  of  Christ? 

Mcodemus,  who  came  to  Jesus  by  night 
to  converse  with  him.  He  brought  myrrh 
and  aloes,  which  were  used  in  the  burial. 
John  19  :  39,  40. 

What  request  did  the  chief  priests  and  Pharisees  make 
"of  Pilot  in  regard  to  the  tomb  in  which  Christ  was  laid  ? 

That  it  be  -made  sure  for  three  days,  least 
the  body  of  Christ  should  be  taken  away  by 
his  disciples,  and  they  should  then  report 
that  he  had  risen  from  the  dead.  Matt, 
27 :  64, 

What  did  Pilot  do,  in  compliance,  with  the  request  ? 

He  directed  them*  to  have  a  watch,  and 


99 

«to  make  the  sepulchre  sure,  which  they  did. 
v's  65,  66. 

Who  composed  the  watch  which  was  set  over  the  tomb 
of  Jesus  ? 

They  were  Roman  soldiers. 

How  long  did  the  body  of  Christ  lay  in  the  tomb  '■ 

From  Friday  afternoon  until  very  early 
Sabbath  morning,  according  to  our  days  of 
the  week ;  'but  according  to  the  Jewish 
days,,  it  was  fromsSaturday  till  Monday. 

What  day  do  christians  keep  as  Sabbath  '. 

The  day  in  which  Christ  arose  from  the 
dead,  which  is  the  first  day  of  the  week. 

What  Is  the  meaning:  of  Sabbath  \ 

It  means  rest. 

What  is  the  proper  name  of  the  day  which  wc  call  Sab 
liath,  and  how  should  it  be  observed? 

The  proper  name  is  Lord's  Day,  and  i  I 
should  be  observed  by  christians  as  a  day 
in  which  to  assemble  for  the  public  wor 
ship  of  God. 

What  was  the  Jewish  Sabbath  in  memory  of? 

It  was  in  memory  of  the  completion  of 
creation.  God  made  all  things  in  six  days, 
and  rested  the  seventh. 

What  is  the  Lord's  Day,  as  kept  by  christians,  in  mem- 
ory of  ? 

It  rs.  in  memory  of  the  resurrection  of 
Christ,  which  is  the  completion  of  redenip 

lion. 


100 


Unto  whom  did  Christ  first  appear  after  he  had  risen 
from  the  dead  ? 

Unto  Mary  Magdalene,  out  of  whom  he 
had  cast  seven  devils.  Luke  19  :  9,  ch.  8 :  2. 

Unto  whom  else  did  he  appear  ? 

Unto  the  eleven  apostles,  Luke  16 :  14, 
and  after  that  he  was  seen  of  above  five 
hundred  brethren  at  once.    1  Cor  15  :  9.  . 

What  remarkable  thing  took  place  at  the  resurrection  ot 
Christ  ? 

"The  graves  were  opened,  and  many 
bodies  of  the  saints  which  slept  arose,  and 
came  out  of  the  graves  after  his  resurrec- 
tion, and  went  into  the  holy  city,  and  ap- 
peared unto  many."  Mat  27 :  52,  53. 

Why  did  Christ  die  and  rise  from  the  dead? 

"  Thus  it  behoved  Christ  to  suffer,  and  to 
rise  from  the  dead  the  third  day  ;  and  that 
repentance  and  remission  of  sins  should  be 
preached  in  his  name  among  all  nations,  be- 
ginning at  Jerusalem."  Luke  24 :  46,47. 

lie  dies !  the  friend  of  sinners  dies  ! 

Lo  !  Salem's  daughters  weep  around  ; 
A  solemn  darkness  veils  the  skies.  " 

A  sudden  trembling  shakes  tho  ground. 

Come,  saints,  and  drop  a  tear  or  two 
For  him  who  groaned  beneath  your  load  ; 

He  shed  a  thousand  drops  for  yon, 
A  thousand  drops  of  richer  bloofl. 

Hero's  love  and  grief  beyond  degree, 
The  Lord  of  Glorv  dies  for  men  ! 


101 

But  lo  !  what  sudden  jows  wo  see, 
Jesus  the  dead  revives  again  ! 

The  rising  God  forsakes  the  tomb  ! 

Up  to  his  Father's  court  he  flics ; 
Cherubic  legions  guard  him  home, 

And  shout  him  welcome  to  the  skies. 

Break  oft"  your  tears,  ye  saints,  and  tell 
How  high  our  great  Deliverer  reigns  : 

Sing  how  he  spoiled  the  hosts  of  hell, 
And  led  tho  monster  Death  in  chains. 

Say,  "Live  forever,  wondrous  King  ! 

Born  to  redeem,  and  strong  to  save !" 
Then  ask,  "  O  death,  where  is  thy  sting?" 

And,  "  Where's  thy  victory,  boasting  gra  v« 


LESSON  XXIX. 

Christ  after  his  Resurrection.       '- 

Ques.  Whore  did  Christ  promise  to  meet  hig  disciples 
after  his  resurrection  ? 

Am.  In  Galilee,  his  native  country.  Matt. 
26  :  32,  and  28  :  6. 

What  remarkable  circumstance  occurred  on  the  day  of   ' 
Christ's  resurrection,  between  Jerusalem  and  Emmaus? 

Christ  joined  himself  in  company  with 
two  of  his  disciples  who  were  sad,  and  were 
talking  over  the  things  which  had  happen- 
ed to  him.     Luke  24 :  13—29. 

Did  these  disciples  know  Christ? 

They  did  not,  but  supposed  that  he  wai 
a  itranger  in  Jernsalyw.  v.  IS. 


102  .     •  - 

What  did  .Christ  do  while  in  company  with  these  two 
disciples  ? 

He  expounded  the  Scriptures  unto  them, 
showing  the  necessity  of  his  sufferings  and 
death,  verses  25 — 2T. 

When  did  Christ  make  himself  known  unto  these  dis- 
ciples ? 

When  he  sat  down  with  them  to  meat, 
and  took  bread,  and  blessed  it,  and  brake, 
and  gave  unto  them,  according  to  his  usual 
custom,  verses  30,  31. 

What  may  we  iearn  from  this  narrative  ? 

That  Christ  is  often  nearer  to  his  people 
while  they  are  talking  or  meditating  of  him, 
than  they  think  he  is. 

What  may  we  farther  learn  from  this  narrative  I 

That  it  is  good  for  those  who  love  Christ 
to  talk  and  to  meditate  of  him. 

What  did  these  disciples  say  one  to  another  after  Christ 
made  himself  known  unto  them  ? 

They  said,  "Did  not  our  heart  burn 
within  us  while  he  talked  with  us  by  the 
way,  and  while  he  opened  to  us  the  Scrip- 
tures ?."  v.  32. 

What  is  meant  here  by  "  the  Scriptures  ?'.' 

The  writings  of  the  Old  Testament. 

What  did  these  two  disciples  do  after  this  \ 

They  hastened  back  to  Jerusalem  to  toll 
the  eleven  apostles  that  Christ  had  risen 
from  the  dead .    verses  33 — 35 . 


103 

While  these  disciples  wore  telling  the  others  What 
things  they  had  seen  and  heard,  what  happened  S 

"  Jesus  himself  stood  in  the  midst  of 
them,  and  said  unto  them,  Pea#ee  unto 
you/'  v.  36. 

IIov,-  were  the  disciples  affected  a1  this  sudden  maft 
tation  of  Christ  I  _ 

Tliey  were  terrified  and  affrighteiiecLand* 

.supposed  that  they  had  seen  a-  spirit.,    v. 
37. 

Which  of  the  disciples  was  absent  oil  this  occasion  '. 

Thomas,,  who  is  called  Didvmus.  John 
20:  24. 

How  was  Thomas  affected  when  the  disciples  told  him 
that  the  Lord  had  risen  from  the  dead  and  that  they  had 
seen  him  ? 

,He  did  not  believe   them;  and   said    lie 
would  not  believe  unless  he   saw   and  put 
his  fingers  in  the  prints  of  the  nails,  and  hi 
hand  into  the  side  of  Christ.  John  20  :  2& 

When  did  Christ  next  appear  unto  his  disci 

After  eight  days.  v.  29. 

Was  Thomas  present  on  this  occasion? 

He  was. 

What  did  Christ  say  imto  him  i 

He  said  unto  him,  "  Reach  hither  thy 
linger,  and  behold  my  hands;  and  reach 
hither  thy  hand,  and  thrust  into  my  side  ; 
and  be  not  faithless,  but  belie ving."  v.  iJ7. 

What  did  Thomas  then  say  ': 

He  said,  u,  My  Lord  am!  mv  Qlod.'J   v.  28. 


104 

What  did  Christ  then  say  1 .  - 

He  said,  "  Blessed  are  they  that  Lave  not 
seen,  and  yet  have  believed."   v.  29. 

Have  you  seen  Christ  ?  and  do  you  believe  in  him  ? 
What  do  we*receive  in  consequence  of  faith  in  Christ  I 

We  have  life  through  his  name.  v.  31. 

At  what  place  did  Christ  next  meet  with  his  disciples  ? 

At  the  sea  of  Tiberias.     John  21 :  1. 

What  remarkable  thing  took  place  there  ? 

He  caused  Peter  to  confess  him  three 
times,  who  had  denied  him  three  times. 
John,  chap.  21,  Matt.  26  :  34. 

How  long  did  Christ  remain  on  earth  after  his  resur- 
rection ? 

Forty  days.     Acts  1 :  3. 

What  was  Christ's  last  command  to  his  disciples  ? 

"  Go  ye  into  all  the  world,  and  pieach 
the  gospel  to  every  creature.  He  that  be- 
lieveth  and  is  baptized  shall  be  saved  ;  but 
he  that  believeth  not  shall  be  damned." 

Do  you  believe  in  Christ  ?  and  if  so,  have  you  been 
baptized  since  you  believed? 

Qo  preach  my  gospel,"  saith  the  Lord ; 

u  Bid  the  whole  earth  my  grace  receive  ; 
He  shall  be  saved  that  trusts  my  word, 

And  he  condemned  who'll  not  believe. 

I'll  make  your  great  commission  known  ; 

And  ye  shall  prove  my  gospel  true, 
By  all  the  works  that  I  have  done, 

By  all  the  wonders  yo  shall  do. 

"  Teach  aJl  the  nations  my  command)* ; 


105 

I'm  with  you  till  the  world  shall  end  : 
All  power  is  trusted  in  my  hand?  ; 
I  can  destroy,  and  I  defend," 

He  spake,  and  light  shone  round  his  head 
On  a  bright  cloud  to  heaven  he  rode  : 

They  to  the  farthest  nations  spread 
The  grace  of  their  ascended  God. 


LESSON  XXX. 

Ascension  and  intercession  of  Christ. 
Ques.  From  what  place  did  Christ  ascend  to  heaven  *. 

.  Arts.  Luke  says  lie  ascended  from  Beth- 
any, Luke  24:  50,  and  also  from  mount 
Olivet.     Acts  1 :  12. 

How  can  these  two  statements  be  reconciled  ? 

Bethany  was  situated  on  mount  Olivet, 
so  that  when  he  was  in  Bethany  he  was  al- 
so on  the  mountain. 

What  was  Christ's  last  act  before  he  ascended  to  heav- 
en ? 

Blessing  his  disciples.  "And  it  came 
to  pass,' while  he  blessed  them,  he  was  part- 
ed from  them,  and  carried  up  into  heaven. 
Luke  24:  51. 

How  did  Christ  ascend  to  heaven '? 

It  seems  that  he  arose  from  the  earth  some 
distance,  and  was  then  received  into  a  cloud 
and  so  passed  out  of  sight.     Acts  1:9. 

What  was  this  cloud  into  which  Christ  was  received  '? 


IOC 

It  was,  in  all  probability,  a  multitude  of 
angels,  who  had  descended  from  heaven, 
and  were  poised  in  the  air,  waiting  to  re- 
ceive Christ, and  conduct  him  up  into  heav- 
en with  great  honor. 

What  are  the  conducting  angels  represented  hy  David 
to  have  said  on  this  occasion  ? 

"  Lift  up  your  heads,  0  ye  gates  ;  and  be 
ye  lifted  up  ye  everlasting  doors  ;  and  the 
King  of  glory  shall  come  in."      Psalm  2L 

What  was  the  response  to  this  ? 

"Who  is  this  King  of  glory?'1 

What  reply  was  made  to  this  ? 

u  The  Lord  strong  and  mighty,  the  Lord 
mighty  in  battle ;  the  Lord  of  hosts,  he  is 
the  king  of  glory.'1 

AVho  appeared  unto  the  disciples  as  they  stood  gazing 
up  into  heaven  at  the  ascension  of  Christ? 

uTwo  men  stood  by  them  in  white  appa- 
rel."    Acts  1 :  10. 

-     Wlmt  were  these  two  men? 

They  were  angels.  > 

What,  promise  did  these  two  angels  make  to    the  disci- 

That  this"  same  Jesus  whom  they  had  seen 
ascend  into  heaven  should  return  again  in 
.like  manner  as.  they  had  seen  him   ascend. 
Acts  1 :  11. 
Where  is  *  %tinad  .now  t 

I  i.'  is   exalted  ft1  the  risrht    hand  of  <  fr>d 


107     ■ 

llir  Father,  to  be  a  Prince  an<l    n   Saviour. 
Acts  5:  31,  Heb.  12:  2. 

What  is  his  peculiar  work  there  ' 

To  give  repentance  and  remission  of  sifts. 
Acts  5:  31,  Col.  1:  14. 

How  do  we  receive  remission  of  Bins  by  Christ' 

By  his  intercessions.  He  is  continually 
making  intercessions  for  his  people.     Heb. 

7  :  25. 

What  are  we  to   understand   by  the  intercession  of 
Christ  i 

Having  made  full  atonement  for  the  sins 
of  his  people,  by  enduring  in  his  own  per- 
son that  penalty  which  was  due  to  their 
sins,  his  presence  at  the  right  hand  of  the 
Father,  continually  shows  the  reason  why 
those  should  be  forgiven  who  come  to  God 
in  his  name. 

By  what  other  name  is  Christ  called  as  our  inter*  < 

He  is  called  our  Advocate.  u  If  any 
man  sin,  we  have  an  advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the'rightous."  1  John 
2:  1, 

What  is  the  business  of  an  Advocate  .- 

To  show  cause  why  those  should  be 
aquitted  for  whom  he  pleads. 

For  whom  does  Christ  plead  ? 

For  his  people. 

Of  what  are  his  people  to  be  aquitted*- 

Of  the  guilt  of  sin. 


108 


Arc  his  people  sinners  ? 
They  are,  but  sinners  saved  by  grace, 

What  is  the  ground  of  his  pleadings  ? 

That  he  died  for  their  sins,  and  arose  for 
their  justification. 

He  lives  !  the  great  Redeemer  lives  ! 
What  joy  the  blest  assurance  gives  ! 
And  no%  before  his  Father  God, 
He  pleads  the  merits  of  his  blood. 

Repeated  crimes  awake  our  fears, 

And  justice  armed  with  frowns  appears  ; 

But  in  the  Saviour's  lovely  face  , 

Sweet  mercy  smiles,  and  all  is  peace. 

Hence,  then  ye  dark,  despairing  thought»  ; 
Above  our  fears,  above  our  faults, 
His  powerful  intercessions  rise ; 
And  guilt  recedes,  and  terror  dies. 

Great  Advocate,  almighty  Friend. 
On  thee  our  humble  hopes  depend  ; 
Our  cause  can  never,   never  fail, 
For  thou  dost  plead,  and  must  prevail. 


4 


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